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Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana

Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana, unspecified, 1605
Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana, unspecified, 1605

Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1605 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The work, dated 1605 and housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art, reflects a synthesis of Hindu mythic storytelling and Mughal‑inspired miniature techniques.

The painting illustrates the climactic clash between the demon king Ravana and the celestial bird Jatayu as recounted in Chapters 50‑51 of the Aranya Kanda of Valmiki's Ramayana. In this scene Ravana, depicted with multiple heads and arms, confronts Jatayu, whose wings are outstretched in a desperate attempt to halt the rakshasa's advance. The composition emphasizes the epic's themes of heroic sacrifice and the triumph of dharma over adharma, while the surrounding forest setting underscores the narrative's focus on exile and conflict.

The work, dated 1605 and housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art, reflects a synthesis of Hindu mythic storytelling and Mughal‑inspired miniature techniques.

History & Provenance

The folio depicting the Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, drawn from the Aranya Kanda of Valmiki's Ramayana, was created in 1605. It is part of the group of manuscripts known as the "Burnt" Ramayana. The specific artist responsible for this history painting remains unidentified in available records.

The work is currently held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, cataloged under the accession number 2013.306.

Overview

This painting depicts a dramatic confrontation between Ravana and Jatayu, a pivotal moment from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda, or "Book of the Forest," within Valmiki's ancient epic, the Ramayana. As a folio from the renowned "Burnt" Ramayana series, the artwork captures a fierce struggle set amidst a vibrant, natural landscape. The scene unfolds with intense action, characteristic of the narrative's emotional depth.

Technique & Style

The painting employs a bold palette, featuring prominent greens, reds, and golds, which contribute to the scene's dynamic energy. The artist utilizes bright red and yellow to highlight Ravana's formidable presence, contrasting with Jatayu's striking white plumage. The background is densely filled with trees and bushes, creating a wild, immersive setting.

A small red flag subtly punctuates the composition, adding a detail to the overall vibrant and expressive visual language.

Context

This particular painting is a folio from a significant manuscript known as the "Burnt" Ramayana. This designation refers to a specific series of illustrations that interpret Valmiki's foundational Hindu epic. Such folios were created to visually narrate the complex stories of gods, demons, and heroes, serving both religious and cultural functions by bringing the ancient texts to life through detailed and colorful imagery.

Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana
Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana

Artist & collection

VISUALLY SIMILAR

Similarity 98 percent

SAME SUBJECT

Similarity 100 percent
This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana?

Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana?

Battle of Ravana and Jatayu, from Chapters 50 and 51 of the Aranya Kanda (Book of the Forest) of Valmiki's Ramayana (Rama’s Journey); folio from the "Burnt" Ramayana is associated with Mughal Painting.