Artwork
Shiva and Sati
Shiva and Sati is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Shiva and Sati is a painting created in 1885 by an unknown artist, executed in opaque watercolour on paper. It depicts a scene from Hindu mythology.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Shiva carrying Sati's corpse, pursued by Vishnu's discus. The figures are rendered with distinct attributes: Shiva wears a yellow headpiece and striped skirt, while Sati has a red cloth and a peacock feather headdress.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by bright colors and bold outlines, typical of the Kalighat style, a tradition from colonial-era India known for its vibrant and expressive depictions of mythological scenes.
History & Provenance
The painting was acquired in 1894 from Miss M Steele, whose family had a history of scholarly interest in Sanskrit and India. The work may have been collected during her grandmother's time in India.
Artist & collection
