History was made at Sotheby’s London this week as a rare 19th-century artwork titled “Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Procession, Riding on an Elephant through a Bazaar” fetched a staggering £952,500, setting a new world record for Sikh art.
Painted by the celebrated artist Bishan Singh, the masterpiece vividly portrays the Lion of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in regal splendour — riding majestically on an elephant amid a vibrant bazaar scene. The painting captures not just royal grandeur but also the rich cultural and artistic legacy of the Sikh Empire.
Art historians have hailed the sale as a defining moment for South Asian art, reflecting growing global recognition of Sikh heritage. “This is more than just a record-breaking sale — it’s a rediscovery of a cultural treasure that represents pride, power, and artistry,” said a Sotheby’s spokesperson.
The painting, which had remained in a private collection for decades, drew intense international bidding, underscoring the rising global appreciation for Sikh history and craftsmanship.
Experts say the sale marks a turning point, inspiring greater preservation and celebration of Sikh-era artworks that continue to tell the story of India’s royal and artistic past.
