19th century

Ceremonial Cover (Rumal)

Beginning in the eighteenth century, female courtiers and their attendants at the Chamba court embroidered rumals (covers). Emulating the subject matter and aesthetic used in paintings, their themes were drawn from epics such as the Ramayana. No specific narrative moment seems to be portrayed in this rumal. Instead, Hanuman's deep devotion to Rama and Sita is suggested by his presentation of offerings to the enthroned couple. Similar to paintings, the artist made a preliminary sketch in charcoal on the fabric prior to adding color.