Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts

Sumptuous exhibition at the V&A spanning the period from the beginning of the 18th century to the mid-20th century and examining the changing role of the maharajas within a social and historical context and concentrating on their artistic patronage.

The exhibition began with an overview of the role of the maharajas and an examination of their culture and traditions. It was a truly magical moment to turn the first corner of the exhibition to find a life sized model of an elephant and a horse in full ceremonial regalia.

I loved the section on the Raj although I was sorry there was not more on the Mutiny. I loved the silliness of the huge painting (20 ft long at least) of Lord Lytton accepting the oath of allegiance from the Indian princes. I noted that it is owned by the Queen and one can only speculate as to where she might keep it.

The final room on the early 20th century was my favourite with sari’s made by western couture houses and a section on the resetting of precious stones by Cartier.

A word of advice, look at the screen of the PDA with the audio guide on as there are lots of videos on it as well. I missed out on these much to my friends’ amusement at the end!

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