Antiquities & Fine Art

Antiquities & Fine Art

Lot 227: A NORTH INDIAN PUNJAB REGIONAL SCHOOL MINIATURE PAINTING DEPICTING A SEATED FIGURE WITH ATTENDANTS, 18TH/19TH CENTURY.

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Start price: £300

Estimated price: £500 - £600

Buyer's Premium: 22%

This Indian miniature painting is executed in watercolour on paper, which is reinforced with a coarse, dark brown burlap-like textile on the verso. The central composition features a bearded male figure, likely royal or divine, seated upon an elaborate throne. He holds a white, horn-shaped object, possibly a ritual vessel or conch. He is flanked by three attendants: one to his left wielding a white fly-whisk (chauri), and two to his right with their hands held together in a devotional anjali mudra gesture. The painting is rendered in a bold folk style characteristic of Northern Indian regional schools, such as those from the Punjab Hills or Kulu. Notable stylistic features include the figures’ large, expressive eyes, a vibrant red ground, and a decorative upper border consisting of scalloped pink and blue clouds. A single stylised tree is positioned to the far right of the scene.

Approximately 31.5 x 20.8cm


Condition report:

The painting displays signs of age and wear consistent with its period. There is visible pigment loss throughout, particularly within the upper cloud border and on the figures. The paper shows general toning and some foxing. The edges are irregular and frayed, with some separation from the textile backing at the corners. The burlap backing itself is worn and shows minor fraying.