Eight albums containing Mica paintings of Indian characters and tradesmen, Hindu Gods and Devotees, and studies of birds, India, circa 19th century

eight albums containing paintings in polychrome colours on thin mica (talc), in an envelope marked: 'Eight sets of coloured pictures on celluloid – male and female &c., also birds of various types, apparently Indian'; 72 paintings overall

In fair condition, the envelope torn and worn, each album with wear, the individual mica paintings in varying states of conservation, some with splits and areas of de-lamination, some with paint flaking and cracking, with sections of paint missing, as viewed. Sizes of mica paintings: 3 albums: 23 by 18cm.; 9 by 6⅞in. : mica paintings: 18 by 13.5cm.; 18 by 13.2cm.; 17.6 by 13.2cm. 4 albums: 19.5 by 15.5cm.; mica paintings: 14.5 by 10cm.; 14.3 by 10.2cm.; 12.2 by 9cm., 12 by 8cm.
"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."

Including: three albums, each with six studies of couples, one smaller album with six studies of male and female tradesmen set as two mica images per page, another smaller album with twelve individual studies of characters, two albums each with twelve depictions of Hindu Gods (including, among others, Durga killing the demon bull, Krishna, Skanda or Kartikeya, Garuda, Vishnu, a Shaivite devotee, the worship of a Shiva lingam), one album with twelve studies of various types of birds.