Description:

Lot 32. A BASHOLI PORTRAIT OF RAJA DHIRAJ PAL OF BASHOLI
Circa 1720–1735, India

This folio depicts a seated ruler identified as Raja Dhiraj Pal of Basholi, shown in three-quarter profile against a saturated olive-green ground. The figure is rendered with the characteristic elongated facial features, arched brows, and prominent nose associated with early-18th-century Basholi painting. He sits cross-legged on a low, red-cushioned throne with a patterned textile draped beneath him, holding a white falcon upon his gloved right hand. His attire consists of a white turban, layered necklaces, and a striped jama in tones of red and grey. Two attendants flank him: one bearing a peacock-feather morchal above his head, the other offering a vessel, each dressed in courtly garments with finely delineated borders. The composition is framed by a red border with inner white and black fillets.

The reverse is plain, showing the natural fibrous texture of the paper with minor stains and small losses along the edges, consistent with age and handling.

Portraits of Basholi rulers served both as records of dynastic authority and as votive or commemorative images within royal ateliers. The refined linear detailing, jewel-like palette, and hierarchical scale of figures reflect the conventions of Pahari court portraiture in this period.

Measurements: 22.5 x 15.5cm

Folio: 18.5 x 12.5cm

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December 16, 2025 1:00 PM GMT
London, United Kingdom

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