PORTRAIT OF A PARSI GIRL
Description
The 18th–19th century Parsis in Bombay started adapting the lifestyle of the British. As a corollary, it became fashionable to get oneself portrayed and a number of Parsi portraits of this period are available today.
This portrait of a Parsi girl gives a glimpse of the attire of Parsi children of that age who would generally wear an ijar, jhabla, coat and a topi. The topi shows an indication of jari embroidery which was promoted by the Parsis along with the embroidery of the garas, sari borders and coats. Her long hair is arranged in a beautiful plait. She is stylishly supporting her arm on a decorative stand. The details of her costume with its intricate decoration as well as her long plait of hair are carved with the utmost care.
The portrait could be of a young girl from one of the well-known Parsi families of Mumbai.
Gift of Smt. Naoroji Lam
Collection
Indian Decorative Art
Object Type
Figurine
Material
Ivory
Schools/Culture/Period
--
Technique
Ivory carving
Date
Late 19th century CE
Location
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Dimension
Ht: 17.2 cms.