A CROWD WATCHES A MONKEY RIDING A GOAT OUTSIDE A CITY, INDIA, MUGHAL, LATE 16TH CENTURY

A fragment of a larger drawing, ink with use of colours on paper

In fair overall condition, fragment is laid down on stout paper, some rubbing to drawing, particularly to the upper portion, some nicks and light tears, but plenty of detail within the drawing, 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."

This is an exquisite drawing, which, despite its fragmentary condition, retains a powerful aesthetic presence. The scene shows a performing monkey, dressed as a man, riding a caparisoned goat through a crown of onlookers near a city. The scene has not been identified as coming from a literary source, and is probably a scene of a notable aspect of Indian life, of the type which became popular among Mughal court artists in the late 16th century. The scene is rendered with great delicacy and a lively sense of action. Cary Welch quoted Rodin's phrase "That which is more beautiful than a beautiful thing is the ruin of a beautiful thing" in relation to lot 80, and it could equally be applied to the present drawing.