Artwork

Illustrations to Life of Dhurva Maharaj: #20 God gives Dhurva his throne upon which he can fly anywhere

Illustrations to Life of Dhurva Maharaj: #20 God gives Dhurva his throne upon which he can fly anywhere is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

The work is a painted illustration from the series “Life of Dhurva Maharaj,” numbered 20, portraying the moment when the deity grants Dhurva a flying throne. Set in a tranquil landscape of rolling hills, trees, and a meandering river, the composition balances foreground figures with a populated background under a blue sky dotted with clouds.

Subject & Meaning

In the foreground a woman in a yellow dress rests on an ornate bench while a man in a yellow dhoti stands nearby, accompanied by a green creature. A blue‑haunted figure with a yellow halo and a peacock feather crowns the scene, symbolizing divine presence. The surrounding wildlife—deer, tigers, a monkey—suggests the harmony of nature with the sacred narrative.

Technique & Style

The painting employs a vivid palette of green, yellow, and blue, creating depth through layered coloration and fine detailing. The use of bright hues and delicate brushwork renders textures of foliage, water, and animal fur, contributing to a calm, serene atmosphere characteristic of Indian illustrative traditions.

History & Provenance

This illustration is part of the Detroit Institute of Arts’ collection. It originates from a series that visually narrates episodes from the life of the Hindu saint Dhurva Maharaj, serving both devotional and didactic purposes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Museum

Detroit Institute of Arts

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