Rawat Gokul Das (1786-1821) of Devgarh
with a consort
by Chokha (at Devgarh court)
dated 1810 CE
Gouache on paper
8.5 x 6.7 in. (21.6 x 17 cm.)
Back: “Tasvir Mharawal Shri Gokal Das ji ri surat no pano najar? 1866 Chataro
Chokho”
Gokul Das, the 9th Rawat of Devgarh is shown romancing with his consort in zenana. Unlike most of other zenana depictions of the period, the background is devoid of all the hustle bustle of ladies and objects. Gokul Das’s upper body is embellished with symmetrically painted multiple lines of pearl necklaces and a meticulously decorated turban. His belongings like sword, shield, kataar, etc. are placed neatly in front of him.
Chokha’s depiction of Rawat Gokul Das’s personality resembles to that of Maharana Bhim Singh of Mewar. This composition appears to be painted in collaboration as the lady’s feature are closer to the style of Baijnath.
Red of the mat and bolster is subdued by white of the floor and balustrade, further balanced by dark grey-ish blue of the night skyline.