Who painted Legend of Durga?

Legend of Durga was painted by Unknown.

Where can I see Legend of Durga?

Legend of Durga is held by Detroit Institute of Arts.

Artwork

Legend of Durga

Legend of Durga is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

In the centre, a woman rides a tiger, sword raised, and on the right a second woman sits on a lotus of pink and yellow, clutching a sword and shield.

The work entitled “Legend of Durga” is a painted composition that arranges three mythic figures across a pale‑green field punctuated with red and gold highlights. A male figure occupies the left side, perched on a white bird while holding a bow and arrow. In the centre, a woman rides a tiger, sword raised, and on the right a second woman sits on a lotus of pink and yellow, clutching a sword and shield.

Subject & Meaning

The three protagonists evoke narratives from Hindu mythology, particularly the goddess Durga’s triumph over evil. The tiger serves as Durga’s traditional mount, symbolising power, while the lotus represents purity and spiritual awakening. The male archer may reference protective forces or a complementary deity, together forming a tableau of divine combat and protection.

Technique & Style

Executed in a style that recalls classical Indian miniature painting, the piece employs fine, intricate line work and a vivid palette of saturated reds, golds, and greens. The use of flat areas of colour and decorative borders emphasizes symbolic motifs rather than realistic perspective, aligning the work with traditional narrative art forms.

Context

The painting reflects a cultural heritage that celebrates mythic storytelling through visual symbolism. Its compositional balance and iconography suggest it was created for a devotional or ceremonial setting, where the depiction of Durga’s legend would reinforce religious themes and communal identity.