An Illustration from the Bhagavata Purana: The Kaurava Elders Convene in Dhritarashtra's Court

The illustration depicting the blind Kaurava king Dhritarashtra at center holding court with his inner circle comprising Vidura, Bhishma, Drona, Duryodhana and Karna. The group is discussing their strategy regarding the Pandavas.

In very good condition with very minor staining, losses and accretion. No restoration. Inscription in Devanagari on verso.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The composition can be compared with an illustration by Nainsukh, depicting the disrobing of Draupadi, see A. Topsfield and M. C. Beach, Indian Paintings and Drawings from the Collection of Howard Hodgkin, London, 1994, cat. 34, p. 88-89. As the authors comment, "...the tripartite division of the durbar hall and details such as the furled blinds with hanging ties are all redolent of Nainsukh's style." ibid.

The facial features of the courtiers may be compared with a circa 1740 illustration of the disrobing of Draupadi in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, which was certainly executed during Manaku's time, see W. G. Archer, Indian Paintings from the Punjab Hills, vol. II, London and New York, 1973, plate 14, p. 99. Here once again, we see elements of two artistic styles that coalesced in the creation of this series.