Important Notice

Kangra, c. 1780
Opaque watercolour on paper
9 x 7.2 in (22.9 x 18.3 cm)

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY-NON-EXPORTABLE

Provenance: Property of a Gentleman, Mumbai

The Kangra School of painting borrows its name from Kangra, now in Himachal Pradesh, and is characterised by rhythmic curvilinear lines, calm tones, and a delicate lyricism. It flourished in the late 18th century, reaching its zenith by the early 19th century. Some of the finest Kangra works were made between 1775 and 1820.

The present work is a fine example of this school of painting. Vishnu, seen in a profile view, is seated on a lotus with His back resting against a cushion, and an aureole glowing behind His head. In His hands, He holds a lotus, a mace, a conch, and a discus. In the background, white clouds swirl and blend with the blue sky.

The most remarkable aspect of this work is the attention to detail. The artist has rendered Vishnu's features with a measured delicacy: his arched eyebrow, the curls of his hair and His mellow smile lend Vishnu a softness, while not lessening the reverence He commands. His arms, the tip of His fingers and His feet are rendered with gentle, curving lines. The folds of his vestments, his garlands and his finery are meticulously painted.

Kangra, c. 1780
Opaque watercolour on paper
9 x 7.2 in (22.9 x 18.3 cm)

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY-NON-EXPORTABLE

Provenance: Property of a Gentleman, Mumbai

The Kangra School of painting borrows its name from Kangra, now in Himachal Pradesh, and is characterised by rhythmic curvilinear lines, calm tones, and a delicate lyricism. It flourished in the late 18th century, reaching its zenith by the early 19th century. Some of the finest Kangra works were made between 1775 and 1820.

The present work is a fine example of this school of painting. Vishnu, seen in a profile view, is seated on a lotus with His back resting against a cushion, and an aureole glowing behind His head. In His hands, He holds a lotus, a mace, a conch, and a discus. In the background, white clouds swirl and blend with the blue sky.

The most remarkable aspect of this work is the attention to detail. The artist has rendered Vishnu's features with a measured delicacy: his arched eyebrow, the curls of his hair and His mellow smile lend Vishnu a softness, while not lessening the reverence He commands. His arms, the tip of His fingers and His feet are rendered with gentle, curving lines. The folds of his vestments, his garlands and his finery are meticulously painted.