The Celestial Chariot, c.1650 (opaque w/c & gold on paper)

Towards the end of the Ramayana Rama has rescued Sita from Ravana's clutches in Lanka. A bridge has been built from Lanka across the water back to the mainland to let Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana return home to Ayodhya. In the painting the residents of Lanka bid goodbye to the monkeys and bears, who helped in the battle to rescue Sita. In the airborne palace filled with these curious beasts Rama and Sita look out from the top floor. Rama and Lakshman confer with the leaders of the animal army. This set of Ramayana illustrations are among the earliest and most impressive narrative paintings from the Panjab Hills. Strongly based in the imperial Mughal style the quality of execution and finish as well as the lavish use of gold being obvious hallmarks of the manuscript, the paintings also exhibit a wit and charm in the depiction of the animals and water creatures. Series: Rama and Sita leave Lanka in the Chariot that goes where one wishes; The dream castle of Lanka; The Golden Castle; Court: Mandi (possibly) School: Pahari State/Province: Himachal Pradesh