The Departure of the Sons of Tippoo from the Zenana

c. 1795-1815

A Chinese export reverse glass painting entitled "The Departure of the Sons of Tippoo from the Zenana" (Chinese, c. 1795-1815), after a drawing by Mather Brown (American, 1761-1831). The work depicts the sons of Tipu Sultan of Mysore being sent away to become British hostages after a military defeat in 1792. The two boys, clad in long flowing muslin gowns and ropes of pearls, take leave from their mother and attendants in the Mysore palace. In the background looms the mausoleum of Tipu's father, and on the left are saddled elephants waiting to convey the boys to the British Army. The title is printed beneath the image at center. The painted glass panel is housed in its original Chinese hardwood gilt frame.

Chinese

paint on glass

27" x 36"

Purchased by The Preservation Society of Newport County, 2007.

PSNC.11580