Shiva and Parvati on Kailasha, India, Mewar, circa 1720

gouache heightened with gold on paper 

In good condition, overall surface abrasion with areas of loss to pigment, creases, minor stains, consolidation at the base with tape, inscribed on verso, 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.
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The scene in this painting depicts Shiva and Parvati seated on a tiger skin outside their mountain abode of Kailasha. While Parvati lovingly gazes at her God-husband, they are venerated by a circle of devotees with clasped palms. The couple is flanked by their sons Ganesha and Skanda. Also in attendance are Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and other celestials together with planetary deities. The group is completed by the couple’s bull and tiger mounts seen in the immediate foreground.

The generous use of gold to highlight distinct elements of the painting, the stylistic floral pattern of the floor where the gathering is seated and in particular the winged apsaras in the foreground entertaining the gathering indicate a strong Deccani influence. Scholars including S.C. Welch, J. Seyller and J. Losty  have commented extensively about the impact of Decccani artists in Rajasthan and Pahari ateliers from the seventeenth century onwards, and this is clearly seen in the present painting.

For another example of Deccani influence in a Ragamala folio from the Stuart Cary Welch Collection, Part Two, see Sotheby’s London, 31 May 2011, lot 15.