Drawing for an Illustration from a Sat Sai of Bihari Lal Series: The Message of the Eyes

"Drawing for an Illustration from a Sat Sai of Bihari Lal Series: The Message of the Eyes (recto); Lady in Search of Her Lover on a Dark Night (verso)" is a work by the Indian painter Nainsukh, created around 1785–90. Nainsukh was a prominent figure in the Pahari painting tradition, known for his delicate and expressive style. This drawing is part of a series illustrating the "Sat Sai," a poetic work by Bihari Lal that explores themes of love and longing. The recto depicts a poignant moment conveying emotional depth through the eyes of the figures, while the verso illustrates a narrative of a lady searching for her lover in darkness. The work exemplifies Nainsukh's mastery in capturing intimate human emotions and his innovative approach to storytelling through visual art. The specific provenance and exhibition history of this drawing are not well-documented.

The painting "Drawing for an Illustration from a Sat Sai of Bihari Lal Series: The Message of the Eyes (recto); Lady in Search of Her Lover on a Dark Night (verso)" by Nainsukh, created circa 1785–90, features a delicate use of ochre on paper. The recto presents a refined depiction of expressive eyes, conveying a narrative of longing and communication. The composition is characterized by intricate detailing and a harmonious color palette that enhances the emotional depth of the subject. On the verso, the scene shifts to a solitary lady navigating a dark night, rendered with a sense of movement and urgency. The contrasting themes of connection and solitude are visually articulated through the careful arrangement of figures and the interplay of light and shadow. The overall aesthetic reflects the artist's mastery in blending narrative elements with a lyrical quality, typical of the Pahari painting tradition.