MADRAS, INDIA, 19TH/EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Details

A GROUP OF FANS (PANKHA)
MADRAS, INDIA, 19TH/EARLY 20TH CENTURY
The first decorated in gold and polychrome with an array of blossoming poppies, peonies and other flowers on a ground of scrolling vine, the reverse with similar flowers surrounding two facing peacocks, each side with a cartouche beneath the handle with a sword; the second decorated in gold and polychrome with panels of peacock feathers on a green ground, the reverse with an array of flowers and floral vine on polychrome panels, the reverse with a panel beneath the handle inscribed 'The Hon Sir Arthur Lawley K.C.M.G., G.C.I.E. Governor', the third with painted floral decoration, the fourth plain with colourful embroidered ribbons along the outer edge, overall very good condition
The largest 27 ¼ x 20 in. (69 x 51cm.)

Provenance

The Hon Sir Arthur Lawley, 6th Baron Wenlock, GCSI, GCIE, KCMG
Formerly in the Collection of Eustace Gibbs, 3rd Baron Wraxall, KCVO, CMG.

Conditions of sale

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Lot Essay

Sir Arthur Lawley was made Governor of Madras on 28th December 1905 and kept the position until 3rd November 1911, his eldest brother Beilby Lawley, 3rd Baron Wenlock, having previously held the post from 1891 to 1896. The fans were probably given to Lawley as part of a ceremonial gesture of gratitude. A similar example is preserved at the British Museum (acc.no. As1960,10.91) which also originates from Madras.

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