The V&A has always asked why things look as they do, often by elucidating technique and maker's intentions, but also through understanding the function of objects and the history of patronage.
This book, and the exhibition it accompanies, explores an important and under- appreciated aspect of the history of taste: the patronage exercised by Indian rulers from the early eighteenth to the mid-twentieth century. It examines the role of this patron- age within the context of the political, social, and economic history of kingship in India and reveals the ceremonial and practical purposes for which such objects were designed. It also reveals the extent to which the market for some of the finest European goods came to depend on and respond to the demands of Indian princely patrons.
The word ‘maharaja’–literally ‘great king’ – conjures up a vision of splendour and magnificence. This lavishly illustrated book examines the real and perceived worlds of the maharaja, from the early eighteenth century to 1947, when the Indian princes ceded their territories into the modern states of India and Pakistan.
Jackson and Jaffer explore the spectacular material culture of India’s rulers, showcasing rich and varied objects that reflect different aspects of royal life. Indian and Western works from a wide range of media, including paintings, photographs, textiles and dress, jewellery, jewelled objects, metalwork and furniture, are considered within the broader historical context , giving readers an understanding of royal status and identity, court culture and patronage, while attractive feature spreads highlight particular maharajas. Essays by leading international scholars explore Indian concepts of kingship, the public aspects of princely life, architecture of the princely court, palace life and recreation, and the important role of the princes as patrons of traditional arts.
Sponsor's Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
Map
Introduction
Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber
Raja Serfoji of Tanjore
Kingship in India
Maharaja Ranjit Singh of the Punjab
Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi
The Power of Public Splendour
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda
Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner
Palace Life
Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala
Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV of Mysore
Patronage at Court
Maharana Fateh Singh of Mewar
Maharaja Ranjitsinhji of Nawanagar
Palaces and the Politics of Style
Nizam Osman Ali Khan Asaf Jah of Hyderabad
Maharaja Yeshwant Rao Ho]kar II of Indore
Indian Princes and the West
Notes
Bibliography
Picture Credits
Contributors
Index