In our exhibition and publication Observed & Imagined, we present Indian paintings which demonstrate the richness and diversity of artistic production in India over three centuries. Two works, among our favourites, are folios from the Kedara Kalpa series. Attributed to Purkhu, this series depicts the five sadhakas (devotees) revelling in marvellous sights along the pilgrimage path to Mount Kailasha, Shiva’s abode in the Himalayas. Sitamau, a fascinating yet little-known centre of Indian painting, produced two captivating paintings full of extravagant royal trappings and inscriptions both important and sometimes surprisingly informal. Our two paintings, dated 1847, are signed by Pyar Chand, an extraordinary artist. He produced paintings that embody the vibrant colours and abstract qualities associated with the finest examples of Rajput painting.

It is a particular pleasure for us to revisit a group of around ten paintings which come from a private collection we helped form about twenty years ago. Some of these paintings were published in our catalogues in 2006, 2007, and 2008.

We are indebted to John Seyller for his research and writing contributions, as well as for his generous advice with many aspects of this publication. We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our other authors, Joachim Bautze, Patrick Felix Krüger, and Friederike Weis for collaborating with us.

For the publication of our exhibiton and to view the paintings, please call or email us.

To view the exhibition please call or email the gallery