Artwork

The goddess Rajarajeshvari

The goddess Rajarajeshvari, by Unknown, paint, 1825
The goddess Rajarajeshvari, by Unknown, paint, 1825

The goddess Rajarajeshvari is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 19th-century Indian painting depicts the goddess Rajarajeshvari in a seated pose, characterized by her four arms and vibrant, intricately patterned attire. The work is distinguished by its bold lines, flat colors, and a plain background that emphasizes the deity's presence.

Subject & Meaning

Rajarajeshvari is shown holding symbolic objects: a disc (chakra) and conch shell (associated with Vishnu), and a flame-tipped object, conveying her multifaceted divine attributes. Her powerful expression and posture underscore her significance in Hindu mythology.

Technique & Style

The painting features bold, dark outlines, flat color application, and elaborate details on the goddess's crown, throne, and clothing, reflective of early 19th-century South Indian artistic traditions.

History & Provenance

Created in 1825 as part of a series of 100 illustrations of Hindu deities, this work originates from a prolific period of religious art production in South India.

Context

Similar works can be found in collections like the Victoria and Albert Museum, highlighting the piece's place within a broader tradition of Indian devotional art from the same era.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known