
Mark Rasmussen
International Director
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Sold for US$2,500 inc. premium
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International Director
While Company school paintings enjoyed increased popularity in India from the 18th century onwards, it was not until the mid-19th century that they were regularly produced in the western part of the country. Other than flora, fauna, and landscape, subjects reflecting traditional Indian trades and castes were also commissioned. The present painting depicts two snake charmers, each playing their pungi to rouse the drowsy serpents from their baskets. As serpents are considered to be sacred in Hinduism due to their association with nagas, Indians view snake charmers as holy men who channel the divine. Compare with another Company school painting published in Welch, Room for Wonder, New York, 1978, p.172, no.162.
Provenance
Christie's, London, 28 September 2001, lot 386
Sotheby's, London, 12 November 2013, lot 224