Artwork
Gujari Ragini
Gujari Ragini is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The work titled Gujari Ragini depicts a young woman seated with a vina, a traditional plucked string instrument, accompanied by a perched parrot. Rendered in a painting format, the composition centers on the figure’s engaged posture and the bird’s presence, creating a quiet, intimate scene.
Subject & Meaning
The woman's facial expression conveys a sense of longing, suggesting an emotional narrative tied to the musical mode referenced in the title. The parrot, positioned nearby, is traditionally interpreted as a symbolic stand‑in for an absent lover, reinforcing the theme of yearning.
Technique & Style
The artist employs a softened modeling of forms reminiscent of the sfumato technique, allowing transitions between light and shadow to blur edges and produce a gentle atmospheric effect. This approach enhances the lyrical quality of the scene and the subtle emotional tone.
History & Provenance
The painting was once part of the collection of Sir Elijah Impey, who served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Calcutta between 1774 and 1783. Impey was known for his extensive acquisition of artworks, and Gujari Ragini formed a component of his personal holdings.
Artist & collection
