Edward Nash

seated, wearing a muslin jama, with a jewelled necklace, pearl earrings and a rose-coloured three-cornered plumed hat edged with green, silver-gilt frame set with cultured pearls and garnets  

Edward Grosvenor Paine, his sale Christie's London, 23 October 1979, lot 127;
Anonymous sale in these Rooms, 24 October 1988, lot 314

Ivory Ground. Overall this miniature is in very good surface condition, save a inconspicuous watermark that runs across her right arm (resulting in a break up of the gum arabic surface). There is also a very small surface scratch near the margin, lower left. The background has probably faded very slightly.
"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."

A member of the Paleri dynasty, Mooda Maji was the second daughter of Dodda Vira Rajendra, Raja of Coorg (1763-1809) and his first wife Mahadeva Rani. As a consequence of continuing disputes with the neighbouring Kingdom of Mysore, the Raja made an alliance with the British in 1790, after which his troops provided invaluable support in the struggle against Tippu Sultan of Mysore. This strategic alliance inevitably fostered other less belligerent associations, such as the Raja's family sitting for a British artist.

Edward Nash sailed to India on the 'Hercules', arriving in Bombay in May 1801; he returned to England, on the 'Dover Castle', in July 1810. In this sympathetic portrait, which clearly shows the influence of Samuel Shelley, Nash's purported master, the child is shown wearing a fine jewelled necklace of typically Indian design.