Procession (detail), Tomasso Colonnello, Oil on Canvas

The procession continues to move forward with palaces and cities in the background. Some people are seated on camels and horses while others are walking on foot amidst the exquisite architectural background. The elongated forms of the camels are decorated with delicate cloth, placed carefully on their backs. The seated figures are all adorned with beautiful jamas. Some of these forms seem to be politely engrossed in conversation, which is emphasised by their delicate hand gestures.

Flowering trees and flowers in blossom provide an alluring charm to the composition. In characteristic Persian style, rocky mountains rise high in a pointed manner. The intricate detailing of the motifs on the architectural elements in the background form a synthesis with the motifs painted in other areas of the composition. The richness of the colour palate elaborates the skill of the artists confirming to the Persian characteristics. The frieze of floral motifs forms the border of the composition providing a sense of continuity to the pictorial.

Portfolio Name: Paintings in the Ashoka Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan
Source: Lalit Kala Akademi