Illustration from a Nayika series

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Illustration from a Nayika series

Artist Punjab Hills, Kangra School Indian

Place of OriginIndia

Dateabout 1820

DimensionsH: 7 7/8 in. (20 cm); W: 10 in. (25.3 cm)

MediumGouache with gold on paper.

ClassificationPaintings

Credit LineGift of Ann and Edward Searles, by exchange

Object number

2007.33

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Label TextA Nayika is a heroine who personifies one of eight romantic moods or states in Indian visual, literary, and performing arts. Here portraying the pains of absence from a spouse or lover, the Nayika stands on the terrace of her home, facing away from her attendant as she looks down in the direction of two courting pigeons. The pale color palette and delicate floral motifs typical of the Kangra School of painting, which was located in the foothills of the Himalayas, enhance the atmosphere of loneliness and longing. Dressed in a tight orange pijama under a gold, flowing dress, the heroine seeks diversion by smoking a hookah that her attendant offers. Though her body language seems to represent sorrow, a gleam in her eye and her slight smile suggest the hope of happiness.