The Vedic god Yama, the god of death and guardian of the south
1820
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1820
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
The Vedic god Yama, the god of death and guardian of the south is a 1820 paint by Unknown, a Patna School of Painting work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
A blue-skinned figure sits tall on a black bull, holding a golden staff and a red rope. His crown sparkles with jewels, and his clothes are bright yellow and green with gold patterns. The bull has a decorated harness, and the whole scene looks like it’s drawn on paper with bold colors. The caption below says this is Yama, a god who carries souls. The bright colors and dramatic pose fit the style of the time. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.
The artwork depicts Yama, the Vedic god of death and guardian of the south, riding a black buffalo. His dark-blue skin features the Saivite mark on his forehead, and he is shown with four arms. Three hands hold a trident, a mace, and a noose, while the fourth grasps the reins of his mount.
Read the full account in the museum source.
Your cart is empty
Explore artworks →
