Artwork

King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala with the Dream Interpreters, Folio 25 (verso), from a Kalpa-sutra

King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala with the Dream Interpreters, Folio 25 (verso), from a Kalpa-sutra is an unspecified painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1488 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This 15th-century Indian painting, Folio 25 (verso) from a Kalpa-sutra, depicts a pivotal scene from Jain religious lore.

Accession no.: 1932.119.25.b
Credit line: Edward L. Whittemore Fund

About this work

You see a king and queen sitting on a throne while two bearded men below them read and write.

You see a king and queen sitting on a throne while two bearded men below them read and write. The queen has just shared her dreams, and the men are figuring out what they mean.

This painting comes from a Jain religious book made in Gujarat, India, around 1500. The dreams predict the birth of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. The bright colors and flat shapes are typical of art from this region and time.

To see more like this, look up western india, gujarat.

Overview

This 15th-century Indian painting, Folio 25 (verso) from a Kalpa-sutra, depicts a pivotal scene from Jain religious lore. Executed in the characteristic style of Gujarat, circa 1500, it features King Siddhartha, Queen Trishala, and two dream interpreters.

Subject & Meaning

The scene portrays King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala seeking interpretation of her auspicious dreams from two learned scholars. The dreams foretell the birth of their son, who will either become a mighty king or a world religious leader, referencing the future Mahavira, founder of Jainism.

Technique & Style

The painting exhibits the distinctive visual language of 15th-century Gujarat art, marked by vibrant colors and flattened forms, typical of the region's manuscript illustrations during this period.

History & Provenance

Originating from a Kalpa-sutra, a Jain religious text, this folio is dated to around 1500, highlighting its role within the religious and artistic traditions of western India.

Context

As part of a Kalpa-sutra, this work was likely used in religious practices or teachings, illustrating key narratives of Jainism, including the prophesied birth of Mahavira.