Lot 195: A LARGE RAMA DARBAR TANJORE DEVOTIONAL PAINTING PAPER ON BOARD, SOUTH INDIA, 19TH CENTURY

This South Indian devotional painting, executed in the traditional Tanjore (Thanjavur) style, depicts the Rama Pattabhishekam or the coronation of Lord Rama. The central composition features Lord Rama seated with his consort Sita, flanked by his brothers Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna. The scene includes an assembly of deities, rishis, and celestial attendants, with the devotee Hanuman positioned at the base. The painting is constructed using mixed media on a wooden panel with characteristic heavy gesso relief work on the crowns, jewelry, and the central throne. These raised sections are covered in gold foil, a technique that traditionally utilizes 24 karat gold leaf. The ornamentation is further enhanced with inset green and white glass cabochons. The figures are painted with pigments against a vibrant blue background. The work is set within a molded wooden frame. The reverse consists of a plywood backing held by aged adhesive tape and includes a metal hanging loop.

88 x 72cm