Lot 305: RAJASTHAN SCHOOL, 18TH OR 19TH CENTURY, 'A TANTRIC REPRESENTATION OF A MULTI-ARMED DEITY'.
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An Indian miniature painting in the Rajasthani Tantric tradition, executed in gouache and opaque watercolour on paper. The central figure is a dark-blue, multi-armed deity, possibly a manifestation of Kali or a syncretic Tantric form, depicted standing in an active pose upon a dark lotus pedestal. The deity is adorned with gold-toned jewellery including earrings, necklaces, and bangles. In the upper left hand, the figure holds a severed elephant head, while the lower right hand holds a small suspended animal, likely a mongoose or a goat. Stylised yellow and red phallic and yoni symbols are positioned around the figure and superimposed upon the torso and limbs. The scene is set against a pale green background featuring an anthropomorphic sun and a crescent moon in the upper corners. The composition is framed by a broad, integral red border. The verso of the painting features extensive handwritten inscriptions in Devanagari script in black ink.
Approximately 33.9 x 23.4cm
Condition report:
The painting is in fair condition. There is visible surface wear and minor pigment loss, particularly within the red border and at the edges of the paper support. Small losses and fraying are present at the corners and along the perimeter. The reverse shows significant age-related staining, darkening, and minor foxing.
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