Painting, Kalighat image of Shiva as a musician, watercolour and tin alloy on paper, Kolkata, ca. 1890

Kalighat painting, watercolour and tin alloy on paper, of the Hindu deity Shiva, the protector and destroyer of the universe, sitting cross-legged playing the Veena, an Indian musical instrument. A strong use of tin alloy and yellow highlights the loin cloth and pale blue shading around the deity's body.

Shiva, the protector and destroyer of the universe, sitting cross-legged playing the Veena, an Indian musical instrument. A strong use of silver pigment and yellow highlights the loin cloth and pale blue shading around the deity's body.

Given by Ernest H. Hindley, Esq.

Historical significance: Calcutta was recognised as the Capital of British India from 1833-1912. By the 1830s, artists had arrived from rural villages in Bengal and began to produce paintings that reflected local history, mythology, customs and conflicts of a colonised society. As a popular art form, these artists are recognised for their use of brilliant colour, simplified images and swift brushstrokes that became the hallmark of Kalighat painting in the 19th and early 20th century.

Given by Ernest H. Hindley, Esq., Lightcliffe[?], Shepherd's Hill, Highgate, N. This acquisition information reflects that found in the Museum records (Asia Department registers and/or Central Inventory) as part of a 2023 provenance research project.

RP 1914-2063M

IM.118-1914