DrawingsIndian19th century

Seated Ruler Holding a Shield with Four Male Attendants

mid 19th century

Description

Seated on a carpet against a large cushion is a Rajput ruler. His status is signified by his green halo with a golden yellow border. The ruler sits with his legs folded under him. He wears a pink turban, a robe (jama), a pink waist sash (patka), necklaces, and a pearl earring. He holds a large black shield (dhal) in front of him. A sword (talwar) is by his side. Before him are four male attendants of different ages, as denoted by their facial hair or lack thereof. The attendant on the top left wears a red turban and has a full beard. His hand is up in gesture towards the ruler. He has a sword in his lap and a shield in front of him. Next to him is an attendant who also wears a red turban and bears a mustache. He has a sword before his lap. The last two attendants are young boys who wear all red. They both carry swords in their hands. Rajput Style, Kota School.

Classification

Drawings

Medium

Ink and opaque watercolor on paper

Culture

Indian

Century

19th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Dimensions

20 x 18 cm (7 7/8 x 7 1/16 in.)

Provenance

Stuart Cary Welch (by 1969 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of temporary loan to Museum in 1969.