Artwork
Sita and Lava
Sita and Lava 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
Sita and Lava is a painting created in 1885 by an unknown artist, using opaque watercolour on paper. It depicts a scene from Hindu mythology.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Sita, a figure from Hindu mythology, accompanied by her son Lava, as she fetches water. The scene is likely derived from the Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by bold outlines, flat colors, and a lack of depth, typical of the kalighat style. The artist employed bright, unblended colors and strong black outlines to define shapes.
History & Provenance
The painting was acquired in 1894 from Miss M Steele, whose family had connections to India and Sanskrit scholarship. It is possible that the image was originally collected by Steele's grandmother.
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
