Who painted Bhairava Raga?

Bhairava Raga was painted by Unknown in 1740.

Where can I see Bhairava Raga?

Bhairava Raga is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Bhairava Raga?

Bhairava Raga is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Bhairava Raga

Unknown , 1740

Bhairava Raga is a paint painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Bhairava Raga is a 1740 opaque watercolor painting on paper, part of a Ragamala series. It depicts a serene courtly scene set on a decorated balcony.

Subject & Meaning

The painting centers on a king, identifiable by his yellow attire and crown, surrounded by attendants. One woman applies sandal paste to his shoulder, while others engage in activities suggesting a performance: one fans him, another plays a stringed instrument. A bird's presence adds to the tranquil, intimate atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Executed in opaque watercolor, the work features vivid, bright colors characteristic of its period. The detailed rendering of textiles, architecture (including arches, trees, and a distant temple in the background), and accessories (like the fan and instrument) showcases the artist's attention to decorative elements.

History & Provenance

Created in 1740 as part of a Ragamala collection, the painting's specific provenance history is not detailed here, though its style suggests origins likely within Indian princely states known for such artworks.

Context

Ragamala paintings, like Bhairava Raga, were commissioned by royal courts to illustrate musical modes (ragas) and their associated emotions and scenes. This piece would have been part of a larger set, each depicting a different raga.

Legacy

Now appreciated for its cultural and artistic significance, Bhairava Raga is comparable to other works housed in renowned institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, which holds similar Indian paintings.