THE UMBRELLA

The umbrella, synonymous with royalty in India, seen in many paintings and miniature illustrations of royal processions, still carries this special significance.   

Arriving at the imposing gates of a prestigious 7* hotel in Rajasthan, we were taken by golf cart, the hundred meters or so, to the forecourt of the hotel, where we were greeted by the liveried, doorman, who held a large, red and tasseled umbrella over our heads and escorted us to the entrance.   The umbrella, was an important part of the ritualised welcome !

However, it's an object not commonly used on the streets, despite the intolerable heat and the torrential downpours of rain.  When the first monsoon rains appear, people opt to enjoy being wet
 - a novelty after  months of searing heat and dusty dryness.

With this in mind, the drawing of the 'Reclining woman with Umbrella' at the Delhi Art Show, made me wonder about the purpose of the umbrella, apart from its decorative repetition of curves.  The drawing reminded me of Picasso's classical style, early in the 20th century  !