A DECCAN MINIATURE PAINTING OF A PROPHET India, 18th century. Ink, gouache, and gold on paper, laid down on paper. Depicted seated on a yellow carpet with a cushion on a terrace, a small stand with a manuscript and various offerings to the sides, the haloed figure depicted dressed in white robes counting prayer beads, above him two celestial beings showering him with flower blossoms. Within narrow yellow and red borders.

Provenance: From a German private collection, assembled during the 1970s.
Condition: Fair condition with wear, soiling, stains, creasing, tears, losses to edges, and few touchups.

Dimensions: Sheet size 20.5 x 27 cm, size incl. passe-partout 31 x 37.5 cm

The “Deccan” (derived from Dakshina) is a geographical term that refers to the plateau in south central India still ruled by Hindu kings when the first Muslim sultanates of India were established in Delhi. The Khaljis (1290-1320) and the Tughluqs (1320-1414) both tried to conquer the Deccan but were ultimately unsuccessful.

Auction result comparison: Compare a related Deccan painting of a Sufi Saint, dating to the 19^th century, at Christie’s London in Arts & Textiles of the Islamic & Indian Worlds on 10 October 2014, lot 69, sold for GBP 1,625.