MAHARAWAT NAHARSINGH AND CHAMPAVATJI
Description
Artist: Baijnath
The Rajasthani style of painting was practised not only in the various principalities of Rajasthan like Mewar, Bundi and Kota but also in the courts of the barons or Thikanedars from these regions. As a result, a new sub-style of Rajasthani paintings emerged which came to be known as the Thikana Paintings. This painting depicts Maharawat Naharsingh, the ruler of Deogarh, seated on the terrace with his wife Champavatji enjoying a dance performance.
The elegantly dressed Champavatji has a brocaded odhani (veil) around her head. The beautifully spread pleats of her skirt exhibit a rich brocade work. Naharsingh, dressed in royal attire, is seated in the centre of the carpet. He holds a small wine cup in his right hand and flowers in his left. The emerald and pearl sarpech (a decoration for headgear) and a black feather decorating his turban indicate his royal position. Vadaran Kasturi (female attendant) dressed in an orange sari stands behind him with a tray and a chuski (silver liquor decanter). A female guard holds the sword and the shield of the Maharawat. Behind Champavatji stand two attendants, one holds a tray and the other a fan. The couple is seated on a beautiful white carpet upon which a feast is laid.
The inscription on the reverse states:
The painting of Maharawat Naharsinghji with his wife, in the mood of Spring, is painted by Baijnath Chokhavat and is made at Deogarh. The painting is stored in the custody of the storekeeper of valuable costumes and jewellery on thirteenth day of the month of Bhadrapad dated Vikram Samvat 1888= 1831.
Collection
Indian Miniature Paintings
Artist
Baijnath Chokhavat
Object Type
Miniature Painting
Material
Opaque watercolour on paper
Schools/Culture/Period
Rajasthani
Technique
Indian miniature painting
Date
Samvat 1888=1831
Location
Thikana Deogarh
Dimension
Full page : 44 x 30 cms . Painting: 38 x 24.3 cms