Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a watercolor painting. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
This untitled 1655 painting on paper depicts the Hindu goddess Durga, shown in the company of a horse, a man, and a tiger.
This untitled 1655 painting on paper depicts the Hindu goddess Durga, shown in the company of a horse, a man, and a tiger. The tiger identifies the figure as Durga in her characteristic martial aspect, the great cat serving as her traditional mount as a warrior goddess who rides into battle against demonic forces. The accompanying male figure likely represents a divine attendant or devotee within the narrative scene.
Together these elements situate the work within the iconographic tradition of Durga imagery, in which the goddess is celebrated as a powerful protectress embodying divine strength and the triumph of cosmic order.
Technique & Style
Created in 1655 in India, this anonymous artwork is executed on a paper support using a combination of ink and opaque watercolor. The medium depicts mythological figures, specifically the goddess Durga accompanied by a horse, a man, and a tiger. Measuring 10.6 cm in height by 14 cm in width, the piece is classified within the painting genre.
The stylistic approach relies on the interplay between the fluid application of ink and the solid coverage of the opaque watercolor to define the narrative scene. Held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the work is a representative example of mid-17th-century Indian painting focused on mythological subjects.
History & Provenance
Created in 1655 in India, this ink and opaque watercolor on paper was executed by an anonymous artist. The work, which depicts the deity Durga alongside a horse, man, and tiger, is currently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The specific circumstances of its commission and the detailed chain of ownership prior to its museum acquisition are not recorded in the available data.
Its physical dimensions are 10.6 cm in height and 14 cm in width, and the creator is identified only as an anonymous painter from the region.
Overview
This untitled painting, executed with ink and opaque watercolor on paper, presents a vibrant narrative scene. It features a central figure on a white horse engaged in combat with a tiger, while a multi-armed goddess mounted on a lion observes from behind. The artwork reflects themes prevalent in Indian art of its period, focusing on heroic and divine actions within a dynamic composition.
Context
This painting exemplifies a common artistic tradition within Indian art during its period of creation. Scenes depicting both human heroes and divine beings in active roles were a recurring motif, often illustrating epic tales, religious myths, or the valor of specific figures. Such works provided visual interpretations of cultural and spiritual stories, serving as important vehicles for narrative dissemination and devotional practice.
Artist & collection
