Conservation of Wall Paintings of 'Life in Zenana'

The initial phase of conservation of the wall paintings of Life in Zenana was initiated from January 2015. The focus of work extends over an area of two floors with extraordinary artistic excellence which incorporates wall paintings with decorative elements on bas relief and Inlay work. The decorative elements and the artistic expression are highly significant and showcases the grandiose of the royal lifestyle of Mewar.

During January to March 2015 condition assessment and initial phase of mechanical cleaning was carried out. The work incorporates preliminary inspection, investigation and documentation of the Wall paintings. The further work in focus will be on mapping the extent of the developing deterioration causes and measures to curb the damages. Study in understanding the original technology of the wall paintings and inlay work will also be of prime focus. The knowledge of original technology will help in understanding the necessary intervention treatments and also dissemination of knowledge for further research. The various conservation planning assessed have been based on least intervention with the original material.

The continuation for preservation of these artistic expression is important for both present and future generation to understand the importance of past culture of Mewar and how its evolution has incorporated and formed present day society and culture of Mewar. The work is carried out by Ms. Vasundhara Kar, Conservator based at MMCF under supervision of Mr S Girikumar, Art Conservator MMCF Consultant.

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Digitisation of old Maps from the Archive of Maharana Mewar Research Institute (MMRI)

Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation has initiated the work of digitisation of 788 old maps from its MMRI Archive. The maps date from the 18th Century and 19th Century depicting Mewar, the topographic survey of state of Rajasthan (Rajputana) and Central India, household maps, Udaipur and nearby areas, Palace maps, Railways in India etc. The digitization work is under process and 57 maps are digitized by the Photographic Studio of Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation with Camera LINHOF KARDAN re – 4x5” and RENCAY archive Scanback —312 Mpixels (1,248 Mpixels with plus option), The universal model for fine art reproductions, newspapers, maps, plans, books etc.

The digitisation process is part of preserving and conserving the heritage of Mewar and to showcase the present and future generation to understand the importance of past culture and how its evolution has incorporated and formed present day society.

Digitisation of old Maps, work in progress