Bonhams Auction House, London, New Bond Street under the category of Islamic & Indian Art
The artwork was created by Ghula Ali Khan in 1854. It portrays the Sufi site, the Dargah Sharif of Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia.Ghula Ali Khan worked for over four decades, from 1817 to 1852. He was a royal Mughal painter who also worked for British patrons in the Company style. This artwork is part of a larger series of 31 paintings made by him, which mainly depict architectural landmarks in and around Delhi. The mausoleum was built in memory of the 13th-century Chishti saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia, and is located in the heart of New Delhi.Sultan Muhammad Tughluq is credited with constructing a tomb with a large dome over his resting place. This complex later included the Jamaat Khana mosque, and became a sacred place that was frequently visited by royalty. It is also the site where Princess Jahan Ara and Emperor Muhammad Shah were present. The location of Humayun's Tomb was chosen because of its closeness to this complex. Ghulam Ali Khan has beautifully depicted the historic mausoleum, which holds both historical and religious value. He succeeded in providing a realistic portrayal using watercolour and natural pigments on paper.
Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia was an important figure, born in Badaun in 1248. He was part of the Chishti Sufi order, associated with the Ghiyaspur khanqah. He lived through the reigns of thirteen Delhi Sultanate rulers, making him a significant Sufi figure in the history of India. He generally kept himself away from political power. He never met any emperor. In fact, he once threatened to leave his house if Sultan Alauddin Khilji entered. However, he had a friendly relationship with Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq during initial days. Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia believed that love is a way to reach God, meaning that love for humanity can bring one closer to the Almighty. He welcomed people from different backgrounds without trying to convert them. He had a deep love for music-based devotion, known as Sama’. He is also credited with inspiring a shift among Delhi's Muslims towards mysticism and prayer.
The place known for its spiritually serene atmosphere, is located in a bustling area of West Delhi. This serenity is reflected in the painting which has a muted colour palette. Light tones of gray and brick red are majorly used in the composition. The striking red used in the center complements the composition and hints at the regal origin of the artwork, its association with Mughal artistic traditions. Fine lines and the ornate detailing, perfectly render the architectural features of the dargah. The subdued palette and balanced composition gives the painting a calming quality that transports the viewer out of the hustle of everyday life.
