Artwork
Shiva Bearing Aloft the Body of His Sati
Shiva Bearing Aloft the Body of His Sati is an unspecified painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This 19th-century painting from the Kalighat style depicts Shiva holding aloft the corpse of his wife Sati on the tip of his trident.
About this work
Overview
This 19th-century painting from the Kalighat style depicts Shiva holding aloft the corpse of his wife Sati on the tip of his trident.
Subject & Meaning
The scene illustrates a Hindu myth where Sati immolates herself due to her father's hostility towards Shiva, prompting Shiva to carry her body until it is dismembered by Vishnu, forming shrines where it falls.
Technique & Style
The painting features bold lines and a mix of Hindu mythology, characteristic of the Kalighat style, which catered to pilgrims in Kolkata. A dark shadow, reminiscent of tribal death images, adds a distinctive element to the work.
Context
Kalighat paintings were produced on affordable paper, blending mythological themes with everyday storytelling, reflecting the artistic and cultural practices of 19th-century Kolkata.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
Kali Dancing on Shiva (recto), from a Kalighat album
Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album
Trivikramapada (Three Steps of Vishnu)
Garuda Carrying Balarama and Krishna (verso), from a Kalighat album
Krishna Ferrying Radha Across the Yamuna River (recto)
Kali and Shiva
Leaf from a Kalighat album: Two Aspects of Kali