Untitled [Set of Three Books on Indian Antiquities]
a) C Sivaramamurti, South Indian Bronzes, New Delhi: Lalit Kala Akademi, 1963
188 pages, including 100 black and white illustrations; hardbound
14 x 11 in (35.5 x 27.9 cm)
South Indian Bronzes by C Sivaramamurti is a landmark work that explores the exquisite artistry and craftsmanship of South Indian metal sculptures. Published by Lalit Kala Akademi in 1963, this book offers an in-depth analysis of bronze casting techniques, the evolution of styles, and the iconography of these remarkable sculptures. It delves into the artistic traditions of the Pallava, Chola, Pandya, and Chera dynasties, highlighting their contributions to the development of bronze art.
The book is richly illustrated with over 100 monochrome and colour plates, including detailed depictions of ornaments, postures, and expressions of the deities. Accompanying these visuals are chapters on iconometry, ornamentation, historical chronology, and a glossary, making it an indispensable resource for scholars, collectors, and enthusiasts of Indian art and sculpture.
b) W G Archer, Indian Paintings from the Punjab Hills: A Survey and History of Pahari Miniature Painting, New Delhi: Sotheby Parke, Bernet, Oxford University Press, 1973
(In 2 Volumes)
Volume I, Text Volume: vi + 335 + (1) pp. Index, glossary, and concordance. Also included are 2 mounted colour plates and a double-page map
Volume II, Plates Volume: xxxiv + 448 pages including colour frontispiece and over 900 black and white examples of miniature paintings
Crimson cloth bound with gilt text to the spine and pictorial dust jacket (each)
12 x 9 in (30.4 x 22.8 cm) (each)
W G Archer's Indian Paintings from the Punjab Hills: A Survey and History of Pahari Miniature Painting is a landmark two-volume work that provides an in-depth exploration of Pahari miniature paintings originating from the Punjab Hill states of northern India. The first volume contains a comprehensive historical and cultural analysis, while the second volume presents over 900 illustrations, including both black-and-white and colour plates. Archer meticulously documents the development of this intricate art form from the 17th to the 19th centuries, with detailed discussions of the various regional styles such as Basohli, Kangra, and Guler.
This book is widely regarded as a definitive study in the field, offering insights into the artistic techniques, thematic variations, and patronage systems that shaped Pahari art. It is an invaluable resource for art historians, collectors, and enthusiasts of Indian miniature painting.
c) Ananda K Coomaraswamy, Catalogue of the Indian Collections in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: Boston Museum of Fine Arts, 1923
150 pages, including 86 black and white plates
11.8 x 8.6 in (30 x 22.2 cm)
Ananda K Coomaraswamy's Catalogue of the Indian Collections in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, is a landmark work published initially in 1923. This exhaustive catalogue is a testament to Coomaraswamy's unparalleled scholarship in Indian art history and his dedication to preserving India's cultural legacy. The publication documents the vast Indian collection at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, jewellery, and other artifacts that illustrate the richness and diversity of Indian art across eras and regions.
The catalogue combines meticulous documentation with profound insights, offering detailed descriptions, provenance, and historical context for each piece. Coomaraswamy's interdisciplinary approach enriches the text, weaving art history, philosophy, and aesthetics to reveal the spiritual and cultural dimensions of Indian art. The catalogue also serves as a vital reference for scholars, art historians, and enthusiasts seeking to understand Indian art's influence and evolution globally.
Reprinted editions of this work are still widely used and appreciated for their scholarly rigour and detailed illustrations. It remains an invaluable resource for those interested in Indian art and its representation in international museum collections.
(Set of 3)