Jewels from a Brush: Zoom Lecture on Manuscript Paintings from India

This session provided a wonderful, scholarly introduction to the art of Indian manuscript painting and the vibrant cultural contexts in which the art form thrived. Joan Cummins, Curator of Asian Art at the Brooklyn Museum and daughter of CHV member Sally Cummins, took our audience into the courts of emperors and maharajas, and provided a glimpse into the myths and legends that instructed and entertained them.

Beginning in the twelfth century, Indian kings and religious institutions hired painters to illustrate religious and secular manuscripts. This art form flourished from the 16th to the 19th century. While these hand-painted illustrations are often called miniatures because of their delicately-rendered details, their bright colors and lively subjects deliver a visual impact that belies their relatively small size.

Many thanks to Joan for this enlightening session, and to the Brooklyn Museum for sharing the artworks used in the lecture.

Roberta Krakoff, event host
Carnegie Hill Village