Painting

Physical description

Kalighat painting 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 silver pigment and yellow highlights the loin cloth and pale blue shading around the deity's body.

Place of Origin

Calcutta, India (made)

Date

ca. 1890 (made)

Artist/maker

unknown (production)

Materials and Techniques

Watercolour and silver pigment

Dimensions

Height: 17.75 in, Width: 11 in

Object history note

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 the local history, mythology, customs and conflics 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.

Descriptive line

Kalighat image of Shiva as a musician. Calcutta, Bengal, ca. 1890.

Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)

Archer, WG (1971) 'Kalighat Painting' Victoria and LAbert Musuem, London HMSO, p31.

Subjects depicted

Shiva

Categories

Paintings; Hinduism

Collection code

IND