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Lot Essay
Rama and Lakshmana are depicted in discussion with kings and nobles seated within the white marble palace of Ayodhya - then leaving in a horse-drawn chariot as depicted in simultaneous narration. Peacocks stride between the compartmentalized segments of the composition. The zig-zagging elements of white architecture and green lawn interconnect the narrative.
The folio appears attributable to the artist Chaitu (and his workshop) who began his career in Kangra then moved to Garwhal circa 1829, likely establishing an atelier. The color palette, composition, distinctive facial types and polished surfaces are all markers of his style.
The present painting is from the period of Garwhal that has been described by W. G. Archer as "Phase Three" circa 1815-1875. Numerous series appear painted there including at least one dispersed Ramayana series from which the present painting likely originates. Other folios are in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Sri Bhawani Museum in Maharashtra among others.
The folio appears attributable to the artist Chaitu (and his workshop) who began his career in Kangra then moved to Garwhal circa 1829, likely establishing an atelier. The color palette, composition, distinctive facial types and polished surfaces are all markers of his style.
The present painting is from the period of Garwhal that has been described by W. G. Archer as "Phase Three" circa 1815-1875. Numerous series appear painted there including at least one dispersed Ramayana series from which the present painting likely originates. Other folios are in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Sri Bhawani Museum in Maharashtra among others.