Portrait of Colonel Ranabir Singh Thapa 1820 - 1840

This is a portrait of Colonel Ranabir Singh Thapa, painted in the mid-19th century by Bhajuman Chitrkar. The artwork offers a glimpse into the life and times of a high-ranking military figure in Nepal. Thapa's regal bearing speaks to the power he held, and the painting likely served to reinforce his position within the social hierarchy. Yet, it also reveals the cultural exchanges occurring in Nepal at this time. Note the merging of traditional Nepali attire with European influences, which suggests a world that is in constant contact with the West. The inclusion of female attendants in the background is also very telling. Their subdued presence raises questions about gender roles and social expectations. As we reflect on this image, consider how portraiture can both celebrate individual identity and perpetuate broader social narratives. What does it mean to be seen and represented, and who has the power to shape those representations?