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Maharawal Mulraj Singh II of Jaisalmer (1762-1820)
Maharawal Mulraj Singh II of Jaisalmer (1762-1820)

Maharawal Mulraj Singh II of Jaisalmer (1762-1820)

Place of OriginRajasthan state, India, perhaps former kingdom of Jaisalmer
Date1781
MaterialsOpaque watercolors and gold on paper
DimensionsH. 8 1/4 in x W. 5 1/2 in, H. 21 cm x W. 14 cm (image)
Credit LineFrom the Collection of William K. Ehrenfeld, M.D.
Object number2005.64.53
DepartmentSouth Asian Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on view
InscribedDate inscription on reverse in samvat year 1838
More Information
Though a seemingly simple image and a conventional Indian royal portrait, the artist presents the Rajasthani ruler Mulraj Singh (identified by the inscription) as a man of power, wealth, and style through his sartorial attire and accessories. He wears a robe of fine muslin (probably from Bengal), large imported pearls and a Colombian emerald, a gold-brocaded sash, and a turban wound from a long length of fine cloth. He sits in a marble pavilion taking pleasure in the fragrance of flowers and the sounds from a fountain. The shield and punch dagger show Mulraj Singh as a warrior, the fiery halo marks his divine sanction to rule, and the shaved nape of his neck suggests he is a devout Hindu. Portraits were often exchanged as diplomatic gifts and this painting may have been a gift received by Mulraj Singh or one that he gave.