Indian Antiquities

Maharaja Sir Mohendar Singh of Patiala, Oil on Canvas, 7’10.1/2”x 4’11”

Location: Ganatantra Mandap Committee Room

The Maharaja of Patiala, dressed in blue ensemble is seen with his left hand resting upon his sword with an ornamental hilt and scabbard. An upholstered red velvet chair forms resting point for the Maharaja’s right hand. With an elegant carpet spread across the painting, he stands above it wearing a blue ornamented coat, beneath which his jacket is seen prominently.

Blue robe of the Star of India, the Order of the Star of India and a six pointed diamond star with a miniature painting of Her Majesty in the centre are painted atop his attire. His blue robe spreads across the foreground and is held in its place with white stain bows and blue tassels. The Maharaja’s eyes are directed towards the on looker in pride along with a navy blue turban on his head. The facial features with sharp eyes and nose impart prominence to his thick beard and moustache. The pagdi is also embellished with a row of pearl strings and a polka kalgi.

Maharaja Mohendar Singh was born in 1852 and succeeded the throne in 1862 at the age of ten years. In 1870, he was invested with ruling powers. He however died in 1876.