ISARDA OR SAWAR, CIRCA 1700-20Opaque watercolor and ink on paper. 12 x 19 in. (30.5 x 48.3 cm), irregular,
The mahouts have used three sets of chains to abate this spirited young elephant who nonetheless whimsically places his forefoot on the boulder that anchors him. The artist has adopted a rather scientific approach, rendering the animal's likeness with accurate proportions and precise anatomical details through a skillful use of shading. Although the elephant is fully colored, a high degree of linear modelling is still visible through his dark grey skin. Compare to a similar painting published in Topsfield, Visions of Mughal India, 2012, pp.200-1, no.84. Published:Arthur Tooth & Sons, Indian Paintings from the 17th to 19th Centuries, 1975, no.15. Provenance: Arthur Tooth & Sons, 1975Bonhams, London, 21 April 2015, lot 197