- 214
Scene from the Bhagavata Purana: The Kauravas Confer
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 USD
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Description
- Scene from the Bhagavata Purana: The Kauravas Confer
- Opaque watercolor heightened with gold on paper
- image 11 7/8 by 16 5/8 in. (30.3 by 42.2 cm)
- folio 12 1/4 by 17 in. (31.1 by 43.2 cm) unframed
This illustration from the Mahabharata depicts a series of intense meetings within the Kaurava fold. Within the walled palace complex of Hastinapura on the upper left we see the blind King Dhritarashtra conferring with the Kuru elders Vidura, Drona, Bhishma who are no doubt advocating a peaceful resolution to the internecine conflict between the Kauravas and their cousins the Pandavas. In an adjacent chamber, seen at lower left, the bellicose Kaurava general Karna appears to be giving exactly the opposite counsel to the Kaurava brothers Duryodhana and Duhshasana. On the upper right Dhritarashtra passes along the elders' sage counsel to the younger group but the latter appear to be in no mood to listen as they are on the warpath.
The bold outlines, expressive treatment of facial features and use of inscriptions within the image to identify the main protagonists are all stylistic elements associated with the master artist Purkhu of Kangra. The present illustration appears to have been created by a follower of his.
For another illustration to the Mahabharata, of earlier date, possibly by Purkhu and set in similar narrative style, see P. Pal, S. Markel & J. Leoshko, Pleasure Gardens of the Mind, Los Angeles, 1993, cat. 17, pp. 56-57.
The bold outlines, expressive treatment of facial features and use of inscriptions within the image to identify the main protagonists are all stylistic elements associated with the master artist Purkhu of Kangra. The present illustration appears to have been created by a follower of his.
For another illustration to the Mahabharata, of earlier date, possibly by Purkhu and set in similar narrative style, see P. Pal, S. Markel & J. Leoshko, Pleasure Gardens of the Mind, Los Angeles, 1993, cat. 17, pp. 56-57.
Condition
Fairly good overall condition. Slight staining and pressure marks to white architectural elements and pink walls, clearly visible in catalogue illustration. This lot is exhibited in a temporary frame.
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.
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.