Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor painting by the Indian Miniature artist Bhadrabahu. It dates from 1449 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 57.51.38.25
- Credit line
- Bequest of Cora Timken Burnett, 1956
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The work is a religious painting that illustrates themes central to Jain doctrine, drawing on traditional Jain symbolism associated with asceticism, non-violence, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. Created in 1449 in India, the artwork functions as a visual complement to Jain religious narrative, using conventional motifs to convey the faith's philosophical concepts. Its composition and stylistic elements reflect the broader artistic conventions of Jain devotional manuscript art of the mid-fifteenth century, situating it within the religious genre.
Technique & Style
Created in 1449 in India, this religious painting utilizes ink, opaque watercolor, and gold applied to a paper support.
Created in 1449 in India, this religious painting utilizes ink, opaque watercolor, and gold applied to a paper support. The work measures 11.4 cm in height by 28.9 cm in width, indicating a small-scale format typical of manuscript illumination or devotional sheets. Stylistically, the piece functions as a depiction of Jain subject matter, employing the luminous qualities of gold alongside flat areas of opaque pigment to convey its sacred imagery.
The combination of these materials on paper reflects South Asian artistic traditions of the mid-fifteenth century, prioritizing intricate detail and spiritual iconography within a compact physical presence.
History & Provenance
This Jain religious painting is dated 1449 and was produced in India within the manuscript tradition. It entered the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is catalogued under accession number 57.51.38.25, executed in ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper. No documented commission or earlier ownership history prior to its acquisition by the museum is recorded in the available sources, and no history of past exhibitions is provided.
Overview
This untitled painting, executed in ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper, dates to 1449. It visually represents tenets of Jainism, a religion emphasizing non-violence and spiritual liberation. The work likely served as an illustration within a larger manuscript, offering a visual meditation on its sacred texts.
Context
This work originated in Gujarat during the 15th century, created specifically as an integral part of a Jain manuscript. Such paintings were not standalone artworks but functioned to illuminate and enhance the sacred texts they accompanied, providing visual interpretations for devotees. They reflect the rich tradition of religious art patronage in the region.
Artist & collection
