AN ILLUSTRATION TO A RAGAMALA SERIES: GAUDI RAGINI

Alice Heeramaneck, Masterpieces of Indian Painting Formerly in the Nasli M. Heeramaneck Collections, Geneva, 1984, pp.41, pl. 24.

Very good overall condition with slight abrasions to pigment in the area of the sky and in the neck of the peacock at right. The corners of the folio border have been strengthened with backing paper on verso. Inscription on verso along with seal of Datia state. This lot is exhibited in a temporary frame. Image height is 7 3/4 in (19.6 cm).
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.

A blue-skinned heroine bravely alone at night in a forest reaches up to offer a treat to a startled peacock in a tree. She holds a stringed vina in her hand. Wearing a stylized peacock-feathered skirt with matching peacock cap she steps forward briskly against a brilliant red hillside. Two standing peacocks look on. Her angular body twists vigorously, perhaps in subconscious anticipation of an approaching nighttime tryst with her beloved. Schematic verdant trees stand upright all around her. Clouds swirl above in the darkness. A remarkable and powerfully composed Malwa painting.

For a related work refer to Klaus Ebeling, Ragamala Painting, Basel, 1973, cat. 247, pp. 257.