Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor painting. It dates from 1725 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Sangram Singh II, the eighteenth-century ruler of Mewar, engaged in equestrian activities.
The painting depicts Sangram Singh II, the eighteenth-century ruler of Mewar, engaged in equestrian activities. Iconographic elements include a horse, a dog, a man, and a rabbit, all framed within a hunting scene. The presence of these subjects suggests themes of royalty, power, and aristocratic leisure, with the ruler positioned as a central figure in a ceremonial or sporting context.
The inclusion of Sangram Singh II identifies the work as a portrait of political authority, while the hunting scene reflects ideals of noble conduct and martial prowess.
Technique & Style
Created in 1725, this work is executed in ink and opaque watercolor enhanced with gold on a paper support. The composition features an equestrian figure, identified as Sangram Singh II, engaged in a hunting scene alongside a dog, horse, and rabbit. Stylistically, the piece is classified as a painting and demonstrates the application of gold alongside pigments typical of the period.
The sheet measures 47 cm in height by 84 cm in width. While the specific artist remains anonymous, the handling of materials reflects a formal approach to depicting royal portraiture within a narrative landscape context.
History & Provenance
The painting, dated 1725, is executed in ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper and depicts Sangram Singh II, ruler of Mewar, in a hunting scene with a dog, a horse, and a rabbit. Attributed to an anonymous painter and originating in eighteenth-century India, it is part of the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and measures 47 cm in height by 84 cm in width. The available sources document no specific commission, prior ownership, accession number, or exhibition history.
Overview
This untitled painting, rendered in ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper, depicts a vibrant hunting expedition. The composition is densely populated with human figures, horses, and dogs engaged in the pursuit of various animals, primarily rabbits. The artwork's detailed execution and dynamic arrangement characterize its visual impact, offering a glimpse into a specific artistic tradition.
Context
While specific historical context for this untitled piece is not provided, its stylistic characteristics align with works found in significant institutional collections. The integration of detailed draftsmanship, vibrant color, and precious metallic elements suggests an artistic tradition that valued both narrative clarity and decorative refinement, typical of certain regional schools.
Artist & collection
- Untitled
Untitled
Rama and Sita
Padam Singh
Maharaja Balwant Singh of Ratlam (r. 1825–57) in Procession with His Relatives and Courtiers
Untitled
Dasaratha and Rama
Rao Chhattar Sal
Maharana Bhim Singh in Procession
Chand Bibi, with two court ladies
Goddesses and Demons Approaching Combat
Maharaja Balwant Singh of Ratlam (r. 1825–57) in Procession with His Relatives and Courtiers
