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Khambavati Ragini. Hyderabad, Deccan. 18th century. 11cm by 7cm.

This Deccani ragamala illustration from Hyderabad is very strong in Mughal influence, showing nothing of Rajput features, instead relying on naturalism, depth, and indicating psychological insight by varying facial features and expression.  Fastidiously rendered, this small painting loses none of its detail even when magnified to a much larger size.  It is typical of ragamalas from Hyderabad in the 18th century.  In ragamala convention Khambavati Ragini is usually depicted with four-headed Brahma in puja with ritual implements before a sacrificial fire, alongside a female devotee with attendant.