Lot 260: AN INDIAN MINIATURE PAINTING DEPICTING LADIES AT LEISURE IN A GARDEN AND BATHING POOL, NORTH INDIA, LATE 18TH OR EARLY 19TH CENTURY.
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A finely detailed Indian miniature painting arranged in multiple narrative registers, depicting a scene of courtly life within a garden setting. The upper registers feature several female figures of the nobility seated on a terrace and lawn. One figure is shown reclining and smoking from a hookah, while others engage in conversation or are attended to by servants holding fly-whisks and other items. A central fountain is positioned within a square basin. The middle register depicts four women seated on the grass, including musicians playing a dholak and a bowed string instrument. The lower register shows a large rectangular bathing pool containing several women waist-deep in dark water, interacting with each other. The figures are characterised by slender proportions, delicate facial features, and traditional North Indian courtly attire and jewellery. The composition utilises a bird’s-eye perspective and a vibrant palette with gold accents. The work is executed in opaque watercolour and gold on paper. The central image is framed by multiple rules in black, white, and yellow, set within a broad, buff-coloured paper margin.
Approximately 44 x 28.5cm
Condition report:
The painting is in generally good condition for its age. There is minor wear and light foxing visible on the outer paper margins. A faint horizontal crease is present across the lower section of the image, passing through the bathing pool register. The pigments remain vibrant with minimal evidence of flaking or loss.
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