AN ILLUSTRATION DEPICTING A GIGGLING ELDERLY PAIR

In fragmentary condition as viewable in catalog illustration, with staining and wear throughout. A pronounced vertical crease running down the center as well as a repaired tear clearly visible in catalog illustration. Some patches of inpainting to robes and faces of both figures, clearly visible in catalog illustration as light patches of paint. 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.

Two grotesque giggling elders are depicted caricatured, and practically in tears, sharing a private joke as they hush each other. They press the sides of their large noses, one holding a handkerchief and nearly toothless.

Several similar works depicting “European-style” three-quarter views of bust-length laughing or smirking figures referred to as farangi by the locals, a somewhat humorous term for foreigners (and usually Westerners) with strange habits, have been published with one being from the collection of Alvin O. Bellak of Philadelphia. 

Refer to Darielle Mason (ed.), Intimate Worlds: Indian Paintings from the Alvin O. Bellak Collection Philadelphia, 2001, cat. 63,  pp. 154-55 (the essay by John Seyller) and Rosemary Crill, Marwar Painting, Mumbai, cat. 121, P. 146 (this time described as a habshi or Abyssinian).