Elisabetta Marabotto of Saffronart on the extraordinary exhibition Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Great Kings

London: The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in collaboration with the Victoria & Albert Museum in London is hosting the first exhibition on the visual culture of the last Indian royal families. Prior to the VMFA, this exhibition was shown in London (2009-10), Munich (2010), Ontario (2011) and San Francisco (2011-12).

The exhibition collects more than 200 objects including miniature paintings and jewelry with the intent of examining the change of the Maharajas’ role within India’s social and historical context through their incredible patronage of the arts. The objects on display dating from the 18^th century up to the 20^th century celebrate the power and identity of these great kings.

The exhibition is an incredible visual and historical journey through the lives of the member of India’s last royal families.

Along with the exhibition are organized many events related to Indian art and culture. More information can be found on the museum website.

Listen to Deepika Ahlawat, research curator at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and one of the curators of this travelling exhibition, speak about the conception and execution of the show and some of the objects it displays at Saffronart New York.