Artwork
Man Dhata in Yogi Position
Man Dhata in Yogi Position is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1698 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The work titled *Man Dhata in Yogi Position* is a painted panel depicting a seated male figure. He is shown with a tranquil expression and a faint smile, dressed in a red skirt and a white sleeveless garment trimmed with black armbands. A small, flower‑adorned headpiece crowns his head, and his hands rest lightly on his knees.
Subject & Meaning
The figure’s cross‑legged, relaxed pose corresponds to the yogi posture traditionally associated with meditation and spiritual discipline. The miniature scene painted on his chest—showing a rider on a creature—suggests an additional narrative or symbolic layer, though its specific significance remains uncertain.
Technique & Style
The composition is set against a uniform gold background, creating a flat, luminous field that emphasizes the central figure. The paint surface shows signs of wear along the edges, indicating age or handling. The use of vivid reds, stark whites, and contrasting black armbands highlights the figure’s attire and status.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Its acquisition details are not provided, but its presence in a major U.S. institution reflects its recognized value within the museum’s holdings of South Asian art.
Context
The depiction of a meditative male figure aligns with broader artistic traditions that portray ascetics, deities, or sages in contemplative poses. The incorporation of a small narrative scene on the chest echoes a practice of embedding secondary stories within a primary portrait, a feature observed in several regional painting schools.
Artist & collection
