By IANSlife

New Delhi, Jun 6 (IANSlife): Christie's brings together a selection of over 30 fine paintings and 20 courtly objects in its ongoing auction 'Arts of India - Heavenly Gods and Earthly Pleasures'.

The online auction will take place from 4-25 June and feature objects from a range of artistic centres throughout India. The sale illustrates the variety of classical Indian painting traditions, many with depictions of Hindu gods and heroes and scenes from well-known epics. It is curated with iconic examples from the Mughal, Deccani, Rajasthani, Pahari, and Company schools of painting.

Amongst the objects are fine examples of silver-inlaid bidri ware and a selection of magnificent gem-set and enamelled arms and armour, which display the wealth and grandeur of India's regional courts. The sale also includes an opulent collection of 25 hand-woven and intricately embroidered Kashmir shawls dating from the 18th to the late 19th century, an early Indian dhurrie that was purchased in Egypt in 1928 and brought to England onboard the SS Empress of France and an imposing carpet from the Deccan that was formerly owned by the renowned American interior designer, Michael S. Smith.

With estimates ranging from £200 to £35,000, and a rich selection of splendid patterns, colours and designs, this sale presents a fantastic opportunity for new and seasoned collectors alike.