Art 365/120 : Father and Son

This is a portrait of Mirza Raja Jai Singh, the ruler of Amber, and his son and successor, Kunwar Ram Singh I. The ruler is sitting on a nice chair (but not a throne), looking directly into his son's eyes as he hands him a jewelled sarpech (turban ornament). Ram Singh has his hands out, recieving this gift in reverence. The scene shows Mirza Raja Jai Singh choosing Ram Singh as the heir to the gaddi, ie. the seat of Amber.

This tinted drawing dates between 1645and 1650. It was produced in the 'suratkana' (painting atelier) at Amber. That Ram Singh still holds the title 'kunwar' before his name tells us Jai Singh was alive when this picture was made.

A final detail that catches my eye is the frame-- made of silk and gold! How unusual, and splendid!

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Aparnawritesonart

All about South Asian architecture, art history and literature.