Artwork

Leaf from a Kalighat album: Sheetaladevi: The Smallpox Goddess (recto); Durga (verso)

Leaf from a Kalighat album: Sheetaladevi: The Smallpox Goddess (recto); Durga (verso) is an unspecified painting by the Bengal School artist Unknown. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 2003.157
Credit line: Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward

About this work

Overview

This painting is a leaf from a Kalighat album, depicting Sheetaladevi, the goddess associated with smallpox, on one side and Durga on the other.

Subject & Meaning

Sheetaladevi is a complex figure, capable of both protection and harm, as she can either bless or curse with disease. Her worshippers believe that those scarred by smallpox have been touched by her, and they seek to appease her to avoid infection.

Technique & Style

The image features a four-armed woman seated on a donkey, holding various objects, set against a rippled curtain reminiscent of a theatrical backdrop. The style is characteristic of Kalighat paintings, known for their bold and lively depictions.

Context

Kalighat paintings originated in the Kalighat neighborhood of Kolkata, where they were sold to pilgrims as affordable, portable images. They often featured powerful goddesses like Sheetaladevi and Durga.