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Three Company School architectural studies of the Taj Mahal and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Duala Delhi, Circa 1830
Sold for US$3,750 inc. premium
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Three Company School architectural studies of the Taj Mahal and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Duala
Opaque watercolor on paper
(One page James Whatman watermarked 1816) 13 x 19 1/8 in; (33 x 48.5 cm.); 14 1/2 x 19 1/8; (36.8 x 48.5 cm.) 14 x 18 in. (35.5 x 45.7 cm.)
Footnotes
The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Shah Jahan (r.1628-58), following the death of his wife Arjumand Banu Begam, known by her title Mumtaz Mahal, and was built between 1632-43 . Despite the numerous attacks on North Indian cites of Agra and Delhi in the late 18th century, the Taj Mahal was the only monument to have escaped serious damage. It is likely that these two studies would have been a part of a larger volume devoted to the architectural splendor that would have detailed all aspects of the structure and the outlying gates.
Compare with similar large format studies in Pal, P., ed., Romance of the Taj Mahal, London & Los Angeles, 1989, nos. 57 and 59, pp. 67 and 69.
Provenance:
Estate of Carl S. Dentzel, Los Angeles
Acquired prior to 1980
Carl S. Dentzel was a dynamic leader in the cultural affairs of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley from 1940 until his death in 1980. He had a lifelong interest in the Southwest and a commitment to preserving its unique Native American, Spanish and Mexican heritage. He was also director of the Southwest Museum, Los Angeles and formed a renowned collection of paintings by California artists. After his death his private collections of Asian and Southwestern artifacts, was divided among several museums and family members.
Saleroom notices
Please note that the present lot is being sold exclusive of the temporary exhibition frame. If you wish to purchase the frame please contact the department for details.














