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Lot Essay
This illustration from the Mahabharata is possibly a depiction of the scene when the blind king of Hastinapur, Dhristarashtra, reluctantly agrees to announce Yudhisthira, the eldest son of Pandu, as his heir after conferring with the elders seated in his chamber. The Kauravas and the Pandavas have gathered for a sacrifice ritual to mark an auspicious beginning, perhaps in anticipation of this announcement.
In many narrative paintings ascribed to Purkhu and his workshop, diagonals are employed freely in the composition and architecture is a dominant characteristic. Several balconies and terraces, walls and connecting courtyards appear, peopled with multiple figures. Although unable to convey spatial depth in the scene, these elements of design are considered essential for the narrative and for the establishment of atmosphere (Goswamy and Fischer, 1992, pg. 371).
For another painting from the same series, see lot 67. For a brief note and another painting attributed to the school of Purkhu in the sale, see lot 72.
In many narrative paintings ascribed to Purkhu and his workshop, diagonals are employed freely in the composition and architecture is a dominant characteristic. Several balconies and terraces, walls and connecting courtyards appear, peopled with multiple figures. Although unable to convey spatial depth in the scene, these elements of design are considered essential for the narrative and for the establishment of atmosphere (Goswamy and Fischer, 1992, pg. 371).
For another painting from the same series, see lot 67. For a brief note and another painting attributed to the school of Purkhu in the sale, see lot 72.