Chariot drawn by bullocks

33.475

Chariot drawn by bullocks

33.475

Description

An elaborately carved chariot is drawn by a pair of bullocks. The human figures depicting the dignitaries sitting inside the chariot, the chariot driver and the attendants standing with long spears have been carved with great detail. Similarly, the carvings on the chariot and bullocks have been executed with great patience. The artist has excelled in creating the thin thread-like reins of the cart. The pose of the bulls makes the whole object very lively.

Murshidabad was a famous centre of ivory carving in the 18-19th century. The ivory carvers were supported by the Nawabs of Bengal. The ivory carvings depicting Indian gods, chariots, elephant processions, and boats were popular and in great demand from British officers. In the international exhibitions of 1851 and 1888 finest ivory carvings from Murshidabad were an attraction.

Sir D J Tata Collection.

Collection

Indian Decorative Art

Object Type

Decorative Art

Material

Ivory

Schools/Culture/Period

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Technique

Ivory carving

Date

Early 19th century CE

Location

Murshidabad, West Bengal

Dimension

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