Artwork
Hindola Raga
Hindola Raga is a paint painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The two standing figures on either side wear long, patterned dresses and hold objects, one a fan, the other a staff.
This painting shows three figures in bright, flat colors against a dark red background. The person in the center sits on a decorated throne, holding a staff and wearing a blue face and gold crown. The two standing figures on either side wear long, patterned dresses and hold objects, one a fan, the other a staff. Above them, a red-and-gold canopy has dangling ornaments.
The throne figure’s blue face is a clue this scene comes from Hindu tradition. The style looks like it’s from India around 1700, with bold outlines and rich colors.
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Overview
Hindola Raga is a painting in opaque watercolour on paper, created around 1700 by an unknown artist. It depicts a scene associated with the musical mode Hindola Raga.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Krishna on a swing, accompanied by two female figures. The scene is drawn from Hindu tradition and is inscribed in Takri script on the top border.
Technique & Style
The work features bold outlines and rich, flat colors against a dark red background, characteristic of Indian painting from around 1700. The figures are depicted in bright colors with intricate details, such as patterned dresses and ornate canopies.
History & Provenance
The painting is dated to circa 1700 and is an example of a Ragamala painting, a series of illustrations associated with different musical modes.
Artist & collection
