Lot 237: A LARGE RAJASTHANI PHAD FOLK NARRATIVE TEXTILE WITH MIRROR WORK, 19TH/20TH CENTURY.
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This large vertically oriented narrative textile is a traditional Rajasthani folk scroll painting known as a Phad. The work is executed in hand-painted pigments on a cotton cloth base and embellished with numerous small circular glass mirrors, known as shisha work, sewn into the fabric. The composition is organised into several horizontal registers separated by decorative borders. The upper register depicts various Hindu deities including Ganesha and several avatars of Vishnu, such as Matsya the fish, Kurma the tortoise, Varaha the boar, and Narasimha the man-lion. The central section features a prominent enthroned figure, likely a local folk hero or deity such as Pabuji or Devnarayan, positioned beneath an architectural arch and flanked by figures in tiered balconies. Symbols of the sun and moon appear above the central archway. The lower register illustrates an expansive battle and processional scene, featuring the ten-headed demon king Ravana mounted on a beast, along with warriors on horseback and elephants. The style is characterised by bold outlines, a warm palette of red, yellow, and ochre, and figures rendered in profile with distinctive large eyes. The entire piece is framed by a repeating geometric border and finished with a dark fabric edge.
Approximately 172 x 112cm
Condition report:
The textile is in fair to good condition. Significant horizontal and vertical creases are present across the surface, consistent with long-term storage in a folded state. There are areas of light staining, surface soiling, and general age-related discoloration throughout the cotton ground. The hand-painted pigments remain predominantly vibrant. The mirror work is largely intact, though some loose threads may be present at the attachment points.
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