Title: Fragment Depicting The Exile of Rama from the Ramayana

Location: Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Date: c. 1820.

Medium: black ink, and white opaque watercolor on paper

Dimensions: approximately 5 x 4 in.

Presented: Loose -un framed and unmounted

Description

A finely executed ink drawing from the Kangra School, dating to approximately 1820, depicting a fragment from a larger illustrated Ramayana series. Executed in black ink over a visible red preliminary underdrawing, the surviving composition preserves several royal figures within a palace courtyard enclosed by stylized trees and architecture characteristic of the late Kangra atelier.e

The principal figure is inscribed “Rama” (राम), while a second figure is identified as “Lakshmana” (लक्ष्मण). Based upon the surviving inscriptions, gestures, and palace setting, the fragment is best understood as probably depicting Rama’s exile (Ayodhyā Kāṇḍa), showing Rama preparing to depart Ayodhya following his banishment. The missing portion of the original composition almost certainly contained additional principal figures from the narrative, likely including members of the royal court.

The reverse bears an unrelated nineteenth-century pencil profile study, illustrating the sheet’s later history after its removal from the original manuscript or album.

Although fragmentary, the drawing preserves the refined draftsmanship and working methods of the Kangra workshop, including the visible red construction lines beneath the finished black outlines. It represents an appealing study piece for collectors of Pahari painting, Indian manuscript art, and Ramayana iconography.

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Condition

Fragment from a substantially larger composition with significant losses to the original sheet, including the lower right corner and portions of the left side. Trimmed margins, creases, scattered staining, surface soiling, abrasions, and discoloration consistent with age. Several inscriptions remain legible, including those identifying Rama and Lakshmana. The reverse bears a later nineteenth-century pencil portrait study together with adhesive remnants and handling wear. Despite its fragmentary condition, the drawing remains stable and retains excellent artistic and scholarly interest.