Who painted Haragauri?

Haragauri was painted by Unknown in 1885.

Where can I see Haragauri?

Haragauri is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Haragauri?

Haragauri is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Haragauri

Unknown , 1885

Haragauri is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1885, this opaque watercolor on paper depicts Haragauri, a syncretic deity merging Shiva and Parvati. The work entered the collection through Miss M. Steele, whose mother originally assembled the series to which the painting belongs.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is seated, bearing a yellow complexion and a dark mustache, and is adorned with a red‑and‑white striped skirt, a beaded necklace, and a dotted crown. One hand grasps a tall staff while the other rests on the knee, embodying the combined divine attributes of the Hindu gods.

Technique & Style

Executed in opaque watercolor, the image employs flat areas of color and bold outlines, emphasizing decorative surface over illusionistic depth. The background is rendered in a uniform greenish tone, reinforcing the two‑dimensional, stylized aesthetic typical of the Kalighat school.

History & Provenance

The painting was acquired from Miss M. Steele, whose mother had curated the series of Hindu deities that includes this piece. Its provenance traces back to a private collection before entering the museum’s holdings.