A Royal Ride

Peace & Prosperity heralds escalation in artistic pursuits. During the Sikh period, art reached its pinnacle in Lahore, Amritsar, Jind, Patiala etc. It had a unique style, standing in its own right, characterizing its own Punjabi manifestations, reflecting colour scheme and ornamentation.

Sobriety is the key note of this painting. Executed in monochromes, it is a regal miniature. The pachyderm from the royal stables is adorned with ornaments par excellence - the satin overcloth, the metallic head ornament, the festoons etc. Its rear body is almost concealed beneath the rich cloth. The loose skin on the animals fore limbs or the rings around its trunk are cleverly achieved.

In a superbly crafted seat are seated princes from the royal household. Calm & dignified in their demeanour, they are a picture of regal grace. Behind them, a man stands with a huge umbrella, a symbol of royalty. The mahout sits in front, goading and guiding the elephant.

On close inspection and observation, we find the design & decoration of the seat quite influenced by contemporary European elements. The posture of the lions placed at the lower edges is not Indian, nor are the spear holding figurines in the front. It clearly shows that by this time, European art had made inroads into the Indian art territory and was here to stay.

This description by Renu Rana.