Intimate Worlds

by Darielle Mason et al. (Ed.)

The collection of Dr. Alvin O. Bellak constitutes one of the preeminent private collections of Indian 'miniature' painting in the world. Dr. Bellak carefully cultivated his collection over nearly three decades to present a sampling of the finest produced by each style and period of painting. The works date from the 14th century through the 19th. Groups of works highlighted the fascinating confrontations and syntheses of diverse cultures--South Asian, Near Eastern, and European--that occurred in India during this period and invigorated her artistic production. Subjects include illustrations from the great Hindu and Jain religious epics and the poetic live literature of India, iconic images, courtly portraits, and detailed depictions of palace life.Approximately ninety-five paintings and drawings will be included in the exhibition augmented by a selection from Dr. Bellak's collection of Indian metal vessels. The forms of these vessels relate closely to those depicted in the paintings and will not only give the installation three-dimensionality but will also emphasize the painter's careful attention to the details of the material world.