Artwork

Shiva on Nandi

Shiva on Nandi, by Unknown, paint, 1890
Shiva on Nandi, by Unknown, paint, 1890

Shiva on Nandi 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 painting, created around 1890, depicts a Hindu deity on his mount, rendered in opaque watercolour and tin alloy on paper.

About this work

Overview

This painting, created around 1890, depicts a Hindu deity on his mount, rendered in opaque watercolour and tin alloy on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork shows Shiva, a major Hindu god, seated on Nandi, his bull mount. Shiva is portrayed with multiple attributes, including a trident and serpents in his hair, signifying his divine status.

Technique & Style

The painting is characterized by bold black outlines, bright colors, and flat forms, reflecting the influence of the traditional Indian *kalighat* style.

History & Provenance

The painting was part of a collection of 196 works assembled by J. Lockwood Kipling between 1865 and 1893, later donated to the museum by his son Rudyard Kipling in 1917.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known