Artwork
Vishnu as Varaha avatar
Vishnu as Varaha avatar is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This painting depicts a scene from Hindu mythology, created around 1850 using opaque watercolour on paper.
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts a scene from Hindu mythology, created around 1850 using opaque watercolour on paper.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork shows Vishnu in his Varaha avatar, a boar-headed form, rescuing the earth from the demon Hiranyaksha by lifting it on his tusks, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Technique & Style
Rendered in bright, vivid colours with bold outlines, the painting features stylized, flat figures, creating a dynamic and lively scene despite its two-dimensionality.
Context
The work is characteristic of a traditional Indian painting style, likely influenced by regional or folk art traditions, and is related to other similar paintings from the same period.
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
