Artwork

Hanuman

Hanuman, by Unknown, paint, 1890
Hanuman, by Unknown, paint, 1890

Hanuman is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour and tin alloy painting on paper, created around 1890, depicts a scene from Hindu mythology.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour and tin alloy painting on paper, created around 1890, depicts a scene from Hindu mythology.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows two female demons encountering Hanuman in a forest, as told in the Ramayana. One woman, dressed in red with gold accents, points upwards towards a figure hanging from a tree.

Technique & Style

The painting exemplifies the Kalighat style, characterized by bold colours, simplified forms, and rapid brushwork, reflecting the artistic traditions of 19th-century Calcutta.

Context

The work is part of a tradition of local artists who portrayed regional mythology and social tensions under British colonial rule.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known