Artwork

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri, by Unknown, unspecified, 1288
Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri, by Unknown, unspecified, 1288

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri is an unspecified painting by the Indian Miniature artist Unknown. It dates from 1288 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting is a folio from a Jain manuscript, the Parshvanatha Charitra, depicting a scene of spiritual instruction.

Accession no.
1971.125.a

About this work

Overview

This painting is a folio from a Jain manuscript, the Parshvanatha Charitra, depicting a scene of spiritual instruction. It showcases a monk teaching a disciple, with a lay audience below.

Subject & Meaning

The scene emphasizes the importance of oral transmission of knowledge in Jain tradition. The monk and disciple are dressed in white robes, signifying their affiliation with the Shvetambara sect, and are equipped with tools to prevent harm to small creatures.

Technique & Style

The painting features bright colors and flat shapes, creating a simple yet vivid representation of the scene. The level of detail, such as the shields and brooms, highlights the artist's attention to the Jain principles of non-violence.

Context

The manuscript from which this painting comes tells the life story of Lord Parshva, a significant figure in Jain spirituality. The artwork is characteristic of the style prevalent in western India, particularly Gujarat.

Folio 2 from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri: Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience (recto); Text (verso)
Folio 2 from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri: Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience (recto); Text (verso), Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri?

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri was painted by Unknown in 1288.

Where can I see Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri?

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri?

Monk preaching to a disciple with a lay audience, folio 2 (recto) from a Parshvanatha Charitra (Life and Stories of Lord Parshva) of Bhavadeva-suri is associated with Indian Miniature.