DrawingsIndian18th century

Soldiers at a Palace Entrance Gate

18th century

Description

A group of soldiers gather around an entrance gate to a palace. The gate is topped with a large chhatri (canopy), a large, dome-like structure that commonly adorns Indian architecture. At the top of the arched entrance are two elephants facing each other with their trunks raised, a common motif to signify the entrance to a palace. The open door to the gate reveals a small niche in which an orange statue of the Hindu god Ganesh sits. Ganesh is revered as the remover of obstacles and one who gives luck and blessings. Thus, it is common to find him at the entrance of every home and temple in India. The soldiers are depicted in various dress. Some wear mail shirts, helmets with large plumes, and wield swords. A group is dressed in orange robes (jama) with red turbans. They carry long spears and maces. One in particular carries a tiger-headed mace which is used in processions to signify the arrival of royalty, nobility, or someone of high-ranking military status. The third group wears green robes and red turbans. Some carry matchlock guns, while others carry swords. Rajput Style, Kota School.

Classification

Drawings

Medium

Ink and opaque watercolor on paper; Rajput Style, Kota School

Culture

Indian

Century

18th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Dimensions

21.4 x 9 cm (8 7/16 x 3 9/16 in.)

Provenance

Stuart Cary Welch (by 1969 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of temporary loan to Museum in 1969.