Study of the head of a woman

As with many Indian drawings, this study has a finished look about it. The line is sure and steady; elements are filled in with light color washes. Without bright colors we can fully appreciate the assured drawing, especially the way the artist uses an almost unvarying line to delineate the profile.

Many people think of Indian paintings as small enough to hold in the hands for study and appreciation, but larger paintings did and do exist. This is particularly true of the many wall paintings extant in Indian palaces and temples. This study was perhaps made in preparation for a large mural.