Rare finds

For lovers of antiquarian books, maps and prints the exhibition curated by Dilnavaz Mehta’s Rare Finds at Bombay’s Cymroza Art Gallery from November 30 to December 6, 2010 was a real treat. On view and sale were varied maps of India dating from the 16th century, uncommon lithographs, engravings, aquatints, etchings, illustrations recording views of "Hindoo­stan,” books with intricately decorated covers, illustrations and textual content to keep the reader enthralled and entranced for hours, mentions a write-up received from Rare Finds.

Images of Parsis of yesteryears from Rare Finds collection

These pieces of art, culture and history are collectables as well as useful to enhance décor. Mehta mentions that when she realized that such printed material had not been given the recognition it deserved she organized an exhibition in 1999 to increase awareness and foster an interest in such works. That exhibition was followed by five other equally successful ones. In the most recent exhibition, the pieces on display were limited to one of each kind.

Mehta, who holds an MSc degree in microbiology and a diploma in Indian aesthetics, has extensively studied and researched books, maps, paintings, drawings and prints published in and on India from the 17th century to the early 20th century. She is a special guest lecturer for postgraduate studies at the Bombay and Benares Universities. She may be contacted at Rare Finds, 67, Jame Jamshed Building, 811, Parsi Colony, Dadar, Bombay 400014. Tel: (91-22) 24121347/9820222062, e-mail: dmmehta@vsnl.com and dmmehta. rarefinds@gmail.com