Where can I see Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana?

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana?

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is associated with Mughal Painting.

Artwork

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1720 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting, titled "Sacrificial Fire," is an illustration from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana.

About this work

History & Provenance

The available source records no commissioning patron, earlier provenance, or exhibition history beyond its presence in the museum's collection.

Sacrificial Fire is a painting dated 1720 from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana, a manuscript series, and is attributed to an unknown artist. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art under accession number 1990.40, which indicates it entered the museum's holdings around 1990. The available source records no commissioning patron, earlier provenance, or exhibition history beyond its presence in the museum's collection.

Overview

This painting, titled "Sacrificial Fire," is an illustration from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana. It captures a ceremonial gathering where a group of figures in elaborate attire congregates around a central, glowing fire. The scene conveys a sense of focused participation in a significant ritual, with individuals seated on cushions or standing, observing the sacred flame.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork depicts a Hindu ritual, likely a yajna or fire sacrifice, as indicated by the central flame and the attentive participants. An inscription visible within the fire suggests specific prayers or offerings. The presence of a musician further emphasizes the solemn and celebratory nature of the event, which is part of the larger narrative found in the Bhagavata Purana manuscript.

Technique & Style

The painting employs a vivid palette, with figures adorned in robes of bright red, gold, and green, contrasting against a dark blue background embellished with red floral motifs. The composition draws the viewer's eye to the central fire, around which the figures are arranged with a sense of order and reverence. Bold colors and distinct forms characterize the artistic approach, highlighting the ceremonial atmosphere.

Sacrificial Fire, from the "Tula Ram" Bhagavata Purana

Artist & collection

Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art

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