His Highness Chamarajendra Wadiyar X
The artwork His Highness Chamarajendra Wadiyar X by Raja Ravi Varma is a remarkable portrait of the 23rd Maharaja of Mysore, who reigned from 1868 to 1894. Born in 1863, Chamarajendra Wadiyar X ascended the throne at just five years old. The portrait, housed in the Mysore Palace, masterfully expresses the youth and dignified presence of a ruler who was instrumental in shaping Mysore's cultural and educational landscape. Varma's work is celebrated for its detailed realism and depiction of Indian royalty.
Late 19th Century
About the Artwork
The story behind this exquisite portrait of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X by Raja Ravi Varma unveils the rich tapestry of late 19th-century Indian royalty and governance. Ascending the throne at a tender age, Chamarajendra was shaped under British tutelage, which eventually led to the historic event in 1881 when the British administration restored Mysore to the Wadiyar dynasty. Under his rule, Mysore flourished with advancements in arts, music, education, and industry. Raja Ravi Varma, renowned for his vivid and lifelike portrayals, captured this vibrant period and the essence of the young Maharaja with unprecedented realism and grace. This portrait not only celebrates Chamarajendra Wadiyar X's contributions but also immortalizes his era's opulence and intellectual vibrancy.
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Did You Know
Chamarajendra Wadiyar X ascended the throne at the tender age of five, becoming the Maharaja at a time when Mysore was heavily influenced by British governance.
During his reign, Chamarajendra Wadiyar X championed cultural, educational, and industrial advancements, establishing Mysore and Bangalore as key cultural and economic hubs.
Renowned for his lifelike portrayals of Indian royals and mythological figures, Raja Ravi Varma’s work established a pivotal point in Indian art, blending European techniques with Indian sensibilities.
