Artwork

A wooden panel containing ten ivory miniatures, formerly mounted in two bracelets, depicting Indian rulers.

A wooden panel containing ten ivory miniatures, formerly mounted in two bracelets, depicting Indian rulers. is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A set of ten ivory miniatures, originally mounted in two bracelets, features detailed portraits of Indian rulers.

About this work

Overview

A set of ten ivory miniatures, originally mounted in two bracelets, features detailed portraits of Indian rulers.

Subject & Meaning

One of the figures depicted is a man with a serious expression, adorned in a jewelled pink turban, beaded necklace, and embroidered yellow robe, symbolizing his status.

Technique & Style

The miniatures are characterized by a plain blue background, emphasizing the subject's face and attire, a style typical of small, wearable portraits.

Context

These portable portraits were designed to be worn as jewelry, reflecting the cultural practice of displaying personal or symbolic images in adornments.