Artwork

Asavari Ragini

Asavari Ragini, by Unknown, paint, 1750
Asavari Ragini, by Unknown, paint, 1750

Asavari Ragini is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Asavari Ragini is a mid-18th-century Indian painting executed in opaque watercolour on paper, depicting a scene inspired by the ragamala tradition, which combines music, poetry, and art to evoke specific moods.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a Bhil tribal woman, Asavari, in a serene outdoor setting, symbolizing the emotional depth of love associated with the Asavari Ragini musical mode, though the visual description diverges from traditional iconography of a woman among snakes.

Technique & Style

Characterized by vibrant, detailed patterns in the subject's attire, set against a contrasting bright landscape of greens, blues, and soft clouded skies, the work showcases a blend of meticulous craftsmanship and expressive colour use.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1750, the painting's origins and ownership history before its current location are not specified in available information.

Context

Part of the broader ragamala painting tradition, this work reflects the cultural intersection of music, poetry, and visual arts in 18th-century India, intended to visually represent the mood of a specific raga.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known