The vast Indian subcontinent, with over 400 languages and multiple cultural and religious philosophies, produces
endless varieties of works of art.  Dating back to 3500BC, early forms were floor drawings, and carvings and frescoes in caves.
Painting developed on palm leaves and eventually on paper. India’s great classic legends have been interpreted in pottery,
paintings, metal works, weaving, jewelry and toys.

Mughal emperors like Shah Jehan, the builder of the Taj Mahal, were patrons of the arts. The miniature
paintings of the Mughal period were a rare blend of Indian, Persian and Islamic styles, with scenes featuring
hunting, military conquests, sensuous romance, and celebrations like weddings.

Two examples from ETC.’s collections include:
#PA120, Indian miniature in brass- trimmed orange frame, and
#PA125, Indian painting of elephants and mahouts.

Indian folk art, done by primitive ethnic groups, is colorful and whimsical. Many designs are based on
exotic animals like camels, elephants, tigers, horses and hawks. Our ETC. collection includes #M487, the painted
wooden toy horse on wheels. Other interpretations of elephants are: #M401, the Indian elephant incense
burner, and #M458, the finely detailed enamel Indian elephant.