The eye is entranced by the various mediums, from ivory to paper, as they submit themselves to a vision that is both organic and graceful. The immutability of bronze caresses the plumage and lightness of a XV century Mughal peacock censer while an important ivory musical instrument from the Deccan court references the curving volumes of the natural world while representing the dynamic interweaving of animal forms.
Among other treasures on display, delicate Pietra Dura tracings of floral sprays on paper represent the ultimate pronouncement of love on the lapidary interior of the Taj Mahal; a 17th century Mughal red voided-velvet textile displays a breathtaking arrangement of rosettes, saz leaves and carnations, each containing intricate velvet lines that meticulously draw their petals and leaf veins; and an enchanting 17th century painting of the Mughal Prince Dura Shikoh portrays him in splendid tranquility, seated cross-legged within an oval frame and wearing a mauve sarong, or lungi; on his head, encircled by a gold nimbus, he wears an orange and gold turban adorned with a jewel and a pearl.’
For more information and image requests, please contact:
Miguel Pacheco, miguel@prahladbubbar.com
Image:
Ragini Bhupali, North Deccan, possibly Burhanpur, India, (Circa 1670-80). Opaque watercolour and gold on paper, 37 x 25.5 cm.
Provenance: Bourelier collection, France.
