A Cobra di Capello (Maja Tripudians), signed by Chunni Lal, Calcutta, circa 1790

gouache on thick cream paper, watermarked 'J. Whatman', signed in nasta'liq script in the shadow to the lower right, framed

Major James Nathaniel Rind, Calcutta (d.1814)
Christie’s, London, 1 April 1982, from lot 37

In good overall condition, a few minor creases, slight discolouration to leaf edges, 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."

Major Rind of the 18th Native Infantry was in India from 1778-1801. He was employed on survey duty between 1785 and 1789 with headquarters at Calcutta. During this period he assembled the group of natural history drawings, which formed the first eighteen lots in Sotheby's London sale of 9 December 1975.

Snakes play an important part in Hindu mythology, symbolising eternity because of their ability to slough their skins and appear to be immortal. They are considered to personify (and are worshipped for) the virtue they are believed to have acquired from their connection with the gods. The fifth day of the month of Shravan (July-August) is sacred to snakes during which period they are particularly worshipped.

For an identical, unsigned version of this drawing also made for Major Rind, formerly in the collection of Edwin Binney III and in the 1975 Sotheby's sale, see Welch 1978-I, pp.48-49, no.13. For a coloured aquatint of a cobra, by W. Hooker after a drawing of 1773 by James Forbes, see Archer-Lightbown 1982, p.31. For an Indian brown and grey snake, also by Chunni Lal for Major Rind, please see the following lot.