NAM.1965-10-71-1

The Tanjore Durbar, near Madras in Feb 1840. Watercolour on European paper, by a Company artist, Tanjore, 1840 (c). As well as figure studies, Company artists painted occasions such as processions, festivals and durbars (traditional Indian court meetings or receptions) for British patrons. In 1840 a durbar of Rajah Sivaji, ruler of Tanjore, was attended by Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Madras. This painting shows Western influence in its handling of perspective, but also especially Indian qualities in the detail, colour and delicacy - such as in the carpet in the foreground. The artist here uses the lines of the picture to draw the eye towards Sivaji seated on his jewelled throne.