Who painted Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana?

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana was painted by Unknown in 1720.

Where can I see Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana?

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana?

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana

Unknown , 1720

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1720 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Sacrificial Fire is a painting from the 'Tula Ram' Bhagavata Purana series, depicting a pivotal scene from Hindu mythology involving King Kamsa's attempt to kill Vasudeva, father of Krishna, through a fire sacrifice.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates King Kamsa's sacrificial fire ritual aimed at Vasudeva's demise. Divine presence is marked by Brahma (upper left) and Narada (upper right), underscoring the mythological and religious significance of the event.

Technique & Style

The artwork features abundant floral motifs, which scholars associate with contemporary textile patterns from the thriving international trade in the port city of its creation, notably Surat in western India (Gujarat). These motifs are integrated into the composition as painted vines and blooms.

History & Provenance

Originating from a port city, likely Surat in Gujarat, this painting reflects the influence of the local textile trade on art. It is part of the dispersed 'Tula Ram' Bhagavata Purana series.

Context

Created in a hub of international textile trade, the painting's floral elements mirror the designs found on fine cloths traded there, highlighting the interchange between commerce and art in 17th-century western India.

Legacy

As part of the 'Tula Ram' Bhagavata Purana series, 'Sacrificial Fire' contributes to the visual narrative of Hindu mythology, with its style influencing or reflecting the artistic trends of its time in western Indian painting.