Artwork

Seated Rishabha Enthroned, Folio 1 verso of a Yoga-shastra of Hemachandra

Seated Rishabha Enthroned, Folio 1 verso of a Yoga-shastra of Hemachandra is an unspecified painting by the Indian Miniature artist Hemachandra. It dates from 1290 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Technique & Style

While the specific pigments and binding media are not detailed in the provided records, the work is classified as a painting within the religious genre.

This work is a religious painting created in Gujarat in 1279. The piece is executed on a folio, specifically identified as the verso side of the first leaf of a Yoga-shastra manuscript attributed to Hemachandra. While the specific pigments and binding media are not detailed in the provided records, the work is classified as a painting within the religious genre.

Stylistically, it depicts a seated, enthroned Rishabha, reflecting the devotional iconography typical of the region and period. The handling of the figure emphasizes its status as an enthroned deity within the manuscript context.

History & Provenance

Created in 1279 in Gujarat, this religious painting is attributed to the artist Hemachandra. It serves as the first verso folio of a manuscript of the Yoga-shastra. The work eventually entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is cataloged under the accession number 1971.128.2.

No further details regarding its specific commission, intermediate ownership history, or the circumstances of its acquisition by the museum are provided in the available records.

Overview

This painting, titled Seated Rishabha Enthroned, Folio 1 verso of a Yoga-shastra of Hemachandra, dates to 1290. It is attributed to Hemachandra and functions as a single leaf from a larger manuscript. The artwork features a central seated figure alongside textual elements, rendered in a palette of earthy tones. Currently, this historical piece is preserved within the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork depicts a serene, robed figure, identified as Rishabha, seated in a cross-legged posture with hands at rest. This portrayal suggests a revered teacher or spiritual leader, embodying tranquility. Positioned on the right side of the folio, the image is accompanied by red script on the left, indicating its role as an illustrated page within a religious or philosophical treatise, likely offering guidance or narrative.

Context

This painting is not a standalone work but rather a folio, or single leaf, from a Yoga-shastra authored by Hemachandra. Such manuscripts served as important vehicles for disseminating religious and philosophical teachings. The integration of image and text on this page underscores its function as an instructional or narrative component within a larger devotional or scholarly volume from the late 13th century.