A Maratha Wearing a Red Shawl
Opaque watercolor and gold on ivory, ca. 1820
India, probably Tanjore (Tanjavur)
Edwin Binney 3rd Collection
1990:920

“Maratha” refers to a prominent Hindu warrior class that originated in western India. By the early 19th century Maratha groups had gained control over vast territories ranging from Tanjore, now Tanjavur, in the deep south to Scindia, a region in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, in the north. They exerted political and military pressure on both the British and the Mughals.

Miniature paintings on ivory were popular luxury items among Europeans, who were keenly interested in portraits of Indian people, especially rulers and women. This example is thought to have been made for such an export market. A Maratha ruler is shown at a slight three-quarter angle against a mottled pale blue background. Made by an Indian artist, this style of presentation is similar to ivory miniatures painted by British artists, some of whom were working in India at this time. (SQ)

Source :
Indo-Muslim Cultures in Transition
Conveners: Karen Leonard & Alka Patel
31 October-2 November 2008
The University of California, Irvine: Social Sciences Plaza B 1208