a) Seated Raja with Sword
Gouache on paper
7.5 x 5.25 in (18.8 x 13.4 cm)
b) A Raja holding a Falcon
Gouache on paper
7.5 x 5.5 in (19.2 x 14.2 cm)
(Set of two)
These works will be shipped unframed
Khakas are essentially fine line drawings practised by miniature artists in their process of perfecting an illustration. This exhibition offers a contemporary revival selection of 20 khakas, including ones depicting Raja Balwant Singh who ruled Jammu in mid-18th century AD and enjoyed being portrayed conducting his day-to-day activities, by the artist Nainsukh, his contemporary chronicler. Common images included depicting the raja as a young prince smoking a hookah, seated on an ornate carpet against a bolster, inspecting a construction site, or watching a dance performance. A famous depiction of Raja Balwant Singh portrays him writing a letter, while in a relaxed mood. Such illustrations were striking for their delineation, as Nainsukh excelled in rendering the figures with unbroken, flawless lines.