Portrait of a Kotah Ruler, Madho Singh or Mukund Singh c. late 17th century

Curator: Here we have "Portrait of a Kotah Ruler, Madho Singh or Mukund Singh," an intriguing work of an unknown artist, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels unfinished, almost like a sketch. Look at the visible underdrawing; it gives the piece a sense of immediacy, of being caught in the act of creation. Curator: Indeed. The unfinished nature highlights the complexities of representation and power dynamics within the Kotah court. Was this portrait intended for a specific purpose, a gift, or simply a study? The incomplete details make it open to many interpretations. Editor: The vibrant color used on the turban contrasts so sharply with the pale sketch of the body. Curator: The use of color and the inscription at the top signal the patron’s desire to record and commemorate his likeness, fitting into broader traditions of royal portraiture across India. Editor: The layering of the lines is the focus for me. There is an interesting tension between the refined face and headdress and the skeletal quality of the drawing for the lower body. Curator: Absolutely. It’s a glimpse behind the curtain, isn't it? Editor: Yes, one that leaves us contemplating the choices and constraints within artistic representation.