Lot 210: A DELHI SCHOOL ARCHITECTURAL MINIATURE PAINTING ATTRIBUTED TO MAZHAR ALI KHAN, MID-19TH CENTURY.
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This work is a Delhi School architectural miniature painting, executed in gouache and watercolour on paper. It depicts an Indo-Islamic structure, identified by a lower right inscription as a Mughal tomb (Maqbara-e-Mughliya). The composition features a central building with a large black-ribbed dome flanked by two smaller domes of similar design. The facade is constructed from alternating courses of grey and reddish-brown masonry, with a prominent central arched entrance (pishtaq) containing detailed internal architectural elements. To the left of the main structure is a wall section with a decorative geometric jali screen. The building is situated behind an expansive courtyard rendered with Western-influenced linear perspective, bordered by green trees.
The central painting is enclosed within a wide border containing extensive Persian poetry written in Nasta’liq script. A signature is visible in the lower left corner above the inner border line, transcribing to Mazhar Ali Khan. An identifying inscription in the lower right corner reads Maqbara-e-Mughliya. Mazhar Ali Khan was a prominent artist active in Delhi during the mid-19th century, known for his work on the Metcalfe Album.
Approximately 54.2 x 44cm
Condition report:
The paper shows visible signs of age including foxing throughout the border and background. There is a significant area of water staining and discolouration in the lower right corner, extending along the bottom border. The colours appear somewhat muted but the architectural details remain clear. The wooden frame has minor surface abrasions and wear consistent with age.
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