KOTA, RAJASTHAN, INDIA, SECOND HALF 19TH CENTURY

The tilkayats (priests) of the Shri Nathji temple in Nathdwara - and further afield - held significant power. As well as social and political power, the tilkayats could be extremely wealthy. The tilkayats are thought to be the direct descendants of Vallabhacharya who founded the religious Krishna-centred Pushti sect of Vaishnavism. Wooden sandals belonging to Vallabhacharya are still worshipped in the Haveli of Shri Nathji. This painting shows Tilkayat Jivan Lalji, who would go on to run the Shri Nathji temple in Bombay (Mumbai). Jivan Lalji is depicted worshipping Shri Nathji in a painting by Ghasiram Hardev in the collection of Anil Relia (https://www.theindianportrait.com/artwork/shrinathji-as-bridegroom-manorath-performed-by-tilkayat-govardhanlalji-and-other-goswamis/ accessed 13/09/2023).

The present painting shows the Tilkayat in a garden pavilion at night, accompanied by two ladies and attendants. However, it is nonetheless a remarkable exhibition of luxury. Sat on a richly upholstered throne, the pavilion is fitted with a fine carpet on the floor and numerous glass chandeliers. The garden has four European style fountains issuing dyed and no doubt perfumed water amongst richly planted flowerbeds and a scattering of blue-and-white flower pots.