Lot 117
117
Lucknow School, circa 1820-30
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VA… Read more
Lucknow School, circa 1820-30

A noblewoman smoking a hookahwith attendants, in an interior overlooking a garden

Details
Lucknow School, circa 1820-30
A noblewoman smoking a hookahwith attendants, in an interior overlooking a garden
inscribed 'A Hindoo Lady, smoaking her Hookah/attended by Servants & Musicians.-' (on the reverse of the mount)
pencil, pen and black ink, and watercolour, heightened with bodycolour and gold, within the artist's wash-line mount
11 1/8 x 15¾ in. (28.2 x 40 cm.)
Special notice
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis

Lot Essay

Lucknow was a rich and prosperous city. Idealised images such as these represent the spoils of a luxurious lifestyle. Here a noblewoman is seen smoking a hookah pipe whilst her attendants administer to her. She is a fictitious figure - it was seen as unfitting for ladies of rank to be portrayed - especially in their domestic environment. She sits in the zenana - or harem area. A tray of scented oils is positioned to her left, and an incense pot is situated before the two musicians.

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