Who painted Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva?

Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva was painted by Unknown in 1600.

Where can I see Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva?

Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva?

Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva

Unknown , 1600

Double-Sided Painted Banner (Paubha) with God Shiva is a gold painting by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

This double-sided Nepalese banner, known as a Paubha, is a rare, exceptionally well-preserved example of religious art, painted on both sides with vibrant colors and gold accents on cotton. Designed for procession, it measures tall enough to be carried above crowds during festivals.

Subject & Meaning

One side depicts Shiva, the Hindu god, dancing on his bull Nandi, possibly as Nataraja (Lord of Dance), holding a trident, rosary, a Buddhist stupa, and forming the vitarka mudra. The other side shows Durga, Shiva’s shakti, dancing on a white snow lion. The stupa in Shiva’s hand symbolizes Nepal’s non-sectarian religious devotion.

Technique & Style

The banner showcases bold, vibrant colors and intricate textile patterns, with dynamic sashes and a tassel-framed swag at the top. Large, striking flowers adorn the backgrounds of both sides, enhancing the visual energy.

History & Provenance

While specific origins and age are not detailed, the banner’s excellent preservation and unique double-sided painting highlight its rarity among surviving examples of Nepalese religious banners.

Context

Created for religious festivals, this Paubha would have been carried in processions, serving as a mobile, visible embodiment of divine presence amidst the crowd, reflecting the communal and ceremonial nature of Nepalese religious practice.

Legacy

Now part of a museum collection (as suggested by the reference to the Art Institute of Chicago), it provides a valuable insight into Nepal’s religious art and syncretic traditions, offering a teaching tool for understanding the country’s eclectic religious heritage.