Northern India, c. 1800
 
Late 18th/early 19th century Devanagari manuscript. Contemporary patterned cloth over cardboard covers, worn and chipped, spine rebacked in different cloth, hinges loose. 14.5 x 22 cm. Brushed black and red ink text decoratively framed. 250 leaves of text with 19 interspersed color paintings. Endpapers worn, the rest of text-block in solid condition. Binding is Fair, interior Near Fine.
 
Remarkably extensive manuscript in typical landscape format featuring Hindu texts. Beautifully and laboriously illustrated with 19 full-page miniatures, each painted on an orange, yellow, rose or blue background and ornately framed. The colors remain exceptionally vibrant. Various Hindu gods such as Manasa, Durga, and Kali are depicted in visually dramatic fashion.