Mukandi Lal Collection / Garhwal University Archives
Location History:
Originally painted and preserved within the ancestral studio of the Garhwal royal artists in the historic capital of Srinagar (Garhwal). It was later recovered and documented by the pioneering art historian Barrister Mukandi Lal in the mid-20th century to preserve the legacy of the Garhwal School.
Painting of the Old City of Srinagar, Garhwal" is a highly significant and rare secular landscape work within the Pahari miniature tradition, executed by the 19th-century artist Jwala Ram. As the son of the legendary master painter Mola Ram, Jwala Ram inherited a refined visual vocabulary that uniquely blended Mughal stylistic roots with the romantic, lyrical sensitivities native to the Garhwal kingdom. Unlike the heavily romanticized, mythological narratives depicting Krishna and Radha that dominate the school's historical output, this composition acts as an invaluable, structural record of the historic capital before environmental shifts changed its landscape.The artwork beautifully documents the dense architecture, stepped houses, and surrounding dramatic terrain of old Srinagar along the Alaknanda river valley. Jwala Ram utilizes an intricate arrangement of fine lines to trace out the contours of individual mountain folds and regional architecture, opting for an atmospheric presentation that balances soft tones with precise topographical details. The delicate application of mineral pigments introduces subtle gradations of green, cream, and earthy tones that mirror the serene and isolated geography of the Garhwal Himalayas. Rather than relying on dramatic courtly theatricality, the artist emphasizes naturalism, capturing a tranquil architectural stillness. Ultimately, this painting serves as a prime testament to Jwala Ram's ability to maintain his family's artistic rigor while carving out an independent focus on landscape, solidifying his role in extending the Garhwal artistic lineage into a changing 19th-century era.
What strikes me most about this painting is the sense of life and community that emerges from the depiction of the city. Rather than simply recording the appearance of Srinagar, it seems to preserve the memory of a place shaped by the people who inhabited it. The artwork made me think about how cities carry stories, traditions, and identities across generations. For this reason, I see it not only as a landscape, but also as a tribute to cultural heritage and the connection between people and the places they call home.
