Artwork

Hanuman and Indra

Hanuman and Indra, by Unknown, paint, 1890
Hanuman and Indra, by Unknown, paint, 1890

Hanuman and Indra 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.

About this work

Overview

Hanuman and Indra is a 19th-century painting created using watercolour and tin alloy on paper, exemplifying the Kalighat style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene from the Ramayana, featuring Hanuman and either Indra or Indrajit, likely illustrating a moment of conflict between the two figures.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold colours, simplified forms, and rapid brushwork, the work showcases the distinctive visual language of the Kalighat style, with figures rendered in simple shapes and vibrant hues.

Context

Produced in colonial Bengal, the painting reflects the cultural and historical context of 19th-century Calcutta, where the Kalighat style emerged.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known