Sita Ram: Unveiling the Artistry of an Unknown Indian Painter | a Short Review

Sita Ram: Unveiling the Artistry of an Unknown Indian Painter

Sita Ram: Unveiling the Artistry of an Unknown Indian Painter

Introduction :  Sita Ram: Artistic Unveiling : 

In 1784, Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula initiated the construction of a grand edifice in the Mughal style, later known as the Bhool Bhulaiya, as part of a famine relief project. 

This architectural marvel includes the Asfi mosque and stands as one of the last Mughal-style buildings. 

Beyond its outer gate lies the hidden Imambara, accessible through courtyards leading to a central hall, a feat of engineering with no support beams or pillars.

The Brushstrokes of Sita Ram : 

Delve into a mesmerizing watercolor by Sita Ram, a once-obscure Indian artist. This masterpiece, part of an upcoming Delhi exhibition by art company DAG, offers a unique glimpse into the historic landscapes of Lucknow and more.

A Journey Unveiled : 

Between June 1814 and October 1815, Sita Ram accompanied Francis Rawdon, the Marquess of Hastings, on an extensive journey through India. 

The purpose? To meet northern Indian rulers, explore potential British expansions, and closely monitor the ongoing Nepal War. 

Sita Ram's role was pivotal, capturing 229 watercolor paintings portraying the expedition's unfolding beauty.

Tranquil Narratives in Watercolor : 

JP Losty, former curator of the British Library, praised Sita Ram's works as some of the most serene and beautiful creations in Indian painting. 

These paintings, averaging 40 by 60cm, were carefully compiled into 10 annotated albums. However, they remained hidden from the world for over a century until their unveiling in a 1974 auction at Sotheby's in London.

Rediscovery of a Hidden Artisan : 

Hastings' family auctioned two albums in 1974, shedding light on Sita Ram's anonymity. Subsequently, the remaining eight albums, along with additional works from later Bengal journeys, found a home in the British Library. 

Sita Ram's contribution to Company Paintings, marked by watercolor on paper, showcases a departure from conventional gouache.

The Enigmatic Sita Ram : 

Despite being from Bengal and trained in the late Mughal school of Murshidabad, Sita Ram's early life and training remain shrouded in mystery. 

Was he a trained draughtsman? According to Losty, Sita Ram's work reflected exposure to precise draughtsmanship, possibly acquired through training as a botanical or architectural draughtsman.

Legacy in Artistic Versatility : 

Sita Ram's paintings offer a window into India's past before photography and the Archaeological Survey. 

As one of the most versatile Indian artists in the early 19th century, his artworks continue to captivate, bridging the gap between history and the evolving urban landscapes of today.

Conclusion : 

In unraveling the artistic legacy of Sita Ram, we discover a masterful storyteller through his watercolor brushstrokes.

From hidden courtyards in Lucknow to the expansive landscapes along the Ganges, Sita Ram's journey with Lord Hastings becomes a visual narration of historical significance. 

This once-unknown artist emerges as a key figure in Company Paintings, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of Indian art history.

Content, Image Source Courtesy : 

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67412025.amp