Artwork
Maharao Ram Singh II of Kota (r. 1828–66) Worships Brij Nathji as the Bridegroom
Maharao Ram Singh II of Kota (r. 1828–66) Worships Brij Nathji as the Bridegroom is an unspecified painting by the Rajput painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2018.181
- Credit line
- Purchase and partial gift from the Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection; Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts Maharao Ram Singh II of Kota worshiping the deity Brij Nathji, represented as a dark stone sculpture dressed as a bridegroom.
Subject & Meaning
The deity, adorned with a square headdress and flowers in his braided hair, is shown with dynamic movement, conveying a sense of joy and celebration. The king's act of worship suggests a personal and intimate connection between the ruler and the deity.
Technique & Style
The artist has skillfully rendered the stone sculpture to appear soft and vibrant, imbuing it with a sense of life and energy. The use of flowing silks and floral braids adds to the overall feeling of dynamism and joy.
Context
The painting is associated with the Rajput kingdom of Kota, where such artworks were likely created to commemorate royal events or rituals.
Artist & collection
Radha’s Confidante Brings Her to Krishna, based on poetry of Bihari (Indian, 1595–1663)![The Marriage of Rukmini [Mangal], by Unknown](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/unknown--the-marriage-of-rukmini-mangal--7178947364f7bdb5-w320.webp)
The Marriage of Rukmini [Mangal]
Nanda Solves Vasudeva’s Dilemma, from a Bhagavata Purana
Krishna Under a Canopy
King Bana in his court, from an Usha-Aniruddha
A Brahmin gives Krishna the Message or Invitation for the Competition to Rukmini’s Svayamvara, from a Bhagavata Purana
Three Musicians Perform Before a King: Shri Raga, from a Ragamala
Madhava faces a man holding a scale, folio 1 from a Madhavanala-Kamakandala