An equestrian portrait of Maharana Sarup Singh of Mewar (r.1842-61), Udaipur, circa 1850

gouache with gold on paper, narrow blue borders

Generally in fair condition, minor areas of flaking to canopy at top left, small water stain to middle of painting, other small areas of flaking to central figure's sash, small hole to middle lower section, minor losses to leaf edges, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The present portrait is close in style to the artists Tara and Shivalal. A near-identical portrait scene of Sarup Singh by the artist Shivalal dated 1859 of very similar dimensions was sold at Bonhams, New York, 11 September 2012, lot 129. It had exactly the same overall composition, including the main figures, courtiers, accoutrements, banner and canopy, but lacked the lotus flower and was painted in reverse. Another near-identical portrait of the main figures of Maharana Sarup Singh and his horse by the artist Parasuram dated 1859, again in mirror image, executed in an unusual stipple technique and including the curving lotus flower, formerly in the British Rail Pension Fund was sold in these rooms 26 April 1994, lot 54. A fourth version of exactly the same central composition is in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (IS.454-1952).