Early 20th century Indian book of paintings on actual peepal leaves

Wraps. Ca. early 1900s. Blank book with tissue paper leaves, with 37 original paintings, in color, on peepal leaves (Ficus religiosa). Mostly paintings of birds, and of women and men of India, in traditional dress, with a few images of two hands, clasped together, with captions reading "good luck," "God is love," or simply "love." Although some of the tree leaves have deteriorated to the point that only their veins remain ("skeletonized"), the paintings are whole, nice, and bright, and in some cases hold the leaves together. These are fragile paintings, with a few leaves chipped along the edges, but for the most part in very good or better condition. This artisanal practice of painting on peepal leaves, offered to visitors, travelers and tourists, originated in Kerala and southern India although Rajasthan is also cited as a region where this art was practiced. Very good. Item #h44148

Price: $1,200.00