15th May, 2026 10:00
Asian and Islamic Art
258
An Indian painting of a Bengal fox (Vulpes bengalensis)
circa 1830s, Tamil Nadu, South India, Trichinopoly (Tiruchirappalli), Company School,
painted seated on its haunches, its bushy tail tucked underneath, the reverse with a note 'INDIAN FOX DRAWN BY A NATIVE ARTIST OF TRICHINOPLY FROM A TAME SPECIMEN IN THE POSSESSION OF CAPT PARR', opaque pigments heightened with gold on paper
image 6.5 x 7.5cm; framed and glazed
Provenance:From the collection of David and Sandy Fuller.
Footnote:The term ‘Company School’ refers to a body of Indian paintings produced in the late 18th and 19th centuries under the patronage of officials of the British East India Company, their families, and other European residents in India. Emerging alongside the Company’s expanding political and commercial influence, these works reflect a period of transition as Mughal authority declined and British power rose, culminating in the establishment of colonial rule in India.
Produced largely in watercolour on paper or ivory, Company paintings adapt raw-dyes gouache traditions of Indian paintings while incorporating Western conventions such as tonal modelling and linear perspective. The result is a hybrid visual language that preserves the fine detailing and rich colour of Indian painting while introducing a greater sense of depth and naturalism. Paintings were frequently executed on imported European paper, particularly high-quality Whatman paper, which became widely available in India in the late 18th and 19th centuries through British trade networks. Common subjects include portraits of local people, artisans and labourers, alongside depictions of festivals, occupations, Hindu epics, and everyday life.
Key examples are drawn from celebrated commissions such as the Impey, Fraser, Metcalfe, and Parlby albums. For example, The Fraser Album, commissioned by James Baillie Fraser and William Fraser between 1815 and 1820, comprises over ninety watercolours documenting the people of Delhi with remarkable precision; individual works from this series have achieved strong results at auction, for example, numerous paintings offered in The Personal Collection of Prince & Princess Sadruddin Aga Khan sale at Christie’s in October 2025 far exceeded their pre-sale estimates.
By the late 19th century, production had shifted toward more standardised sets made for the tourist market, depicting widely recognisable themes such as monuments, festivals, caste types, occupations, and regional costumes across India.
Take advantage of our Sworders Delivery Service. Please see 'Shipping estimate' below.
Sold for £2,600
Condition Report
Light foxing present to the paper.
Two small marks bottom right and top left.
The gilt border with some discoloration.
The mount with small marks.
The frame with knocks and rubbing to gilt.
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Auction: Asian and Islamic Art, 15th May, 2026
We are excited to present the full catalogue for our next Asian and Islamic Art sale, which takes place on Friday 15 May at 10am.
Discover a carefully curated selection of exceptional works, including fine ceramics, intricate textiles, calligraphy, metalwork, and decorative pieces spanning centuries of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. From finely executed Chinese and Japanese porcelain to striking Indian paintings, Islamic manuscripts, and South Asian bronzes and sculpture, each lot offers a thrilling opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Viewing
London Viewing
Viewing will be held at our London Gallery, Sworders Fine Art, 15 Cecil Court, London WC2N 4EZ as follows:
Friday 8 May, 10am - 4pm
Saturday 9 May, 10am - 1pm
Sunday 10 May, 10am - 1pm
Monday 11 May, 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 12 May, 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 13 May, 10am - 4pm
All lots are, however, extensively illustrated and carry detailed condition reports - see 'Condition report' at the foot of each lot description.
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
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