Artwork

Folio from the Bhaktamara Stotra (“Hymn of the Immortal Devotee”)

Folio from the Bhaktamara Stotra (“Hymn of the Immortal Devotee”) is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. The work is a painted folio illustrating a portion of the Bhaktamara Stotra, a devotional hymn.

About this work

Overview

Executed in vivid, flat colors and defined outlines, the composition is divided into three panels.

The work is a painted folio illustrating a portion of the Bhaktamara Stotra, a devotional hymn. Executed in vivid, flat colors and defined outlines, the composition is divided into three panels. Two upper panels each contain a seated figure framed in red and green motifs, while the lower panel shows a kneeling figure on a similarly colored mat, hands raised in reverence. The overall background is a warm beige that moderates the bright palette.

Subject & Meaning

The three figures represent devotional postures associated with the Bhaktamara Stotra, a text praising the Jain Tirthankara. The seated figures likely embody idealized devotees, whereas the kneeling figure’s uplifted hands suggest an act of worship or supplication, reflecting the hymn’s emphasis on spiritual dedication.

Technique & Style

Rendered in a two‑dimensional manner, the folio employs bold line work and saturated reds, greens, and yellows. The flat application of pigment and lack of perspective are characteristic of manuscript illumination traditions, emphasizing symbolic clarity over naturalistic depth.

History & Provenance

The folio is part of the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Details of its acquisition, date of creation, or original manuscript context are not provided in the source information.