Queen Consort Venkata Rangammal Devi of Kandy, William Daniell, Early 1800s

Original portrait of queen consort venkata rangammal devi of kandy. Description the queen of kandy, the kandyan king’s consort, poses in a chair, legs crossed, against a mountainous landscape. Her elongated neck is covered with exotic, shell-like jewelry. Her hair is bound tightly back and garnished with a loop of flowers. She averts her gaze from the viewer and modestly covers her shoulders, exposing only one, small hand. Unlike most depictions of native indian subjects, her demure features are set in a round, child-like face. Associated texts whilst we remained in the neighborhood of his candian (kandyan) majesty’s residence, mr. William daniell was permitted to make a portrait of the queen, from which the accompanying engraving is taken; it may be relied upon as a most admirable likeness. She was very young, extremely pretty, of engaging manners, familiar without being free, and appeared much delighted at seeing her features transferred to paper. Her dress was becoming, her figure graceful and her gait elegant. (daniell 85). Date: Early 1800s.