This feature story discusses the Sena Empire and highlights the rich cultural heritage as seen in the artifact Lord Nrsimhadeva.
This captivating sculpture, titled "Vishnu," hails from 10th-11th century Punjab, India, and is currently on view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 241. Crafted from sandstone, the piece stands 43.5 inches tall, 25.63 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Vishnu, a principal deity in Hinduism, is intricately detailed, highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of the period. The sculpture, classified under Rogers Fund, 1968, is part of The Met's Open Access collection, allowing for unrestricted use and distribution. Explore more about this magnificent artwork on The Metropolitan Museum of Art's website. Accession Number: 68.46.
The "Glass Bottle with Islamic Design Influence" was unearthed from the Intan shipwreck, located between Malaysia and Borneo. It dates back to the Song dynasty, around the 10th century.
Apsara with Harp by Y. G. Srimati is a mesmerizing watercolor on paper artwork created around 1944. This piece, originating from Chennai, India, captures the ethereal beauty of an apsara, a celestial nymph, tenderly playing a harp. Srimati, an Indian artist who lived from 1926 to 2007, masterfully used delicate brushstrokes and vivid colors to bring this divine figure to life. The painting, measuring 13 3/8 inches by 10 inches, was acquired by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 2016 through various generous donations. This artwork is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of India.
The "Antique Stone Sculpture of Buddha" showcases an exquisite piece of art seized from a foreign national at the Attari border in Punjab. This sculpture is a significant artifact that reflects the historical and cultural significance of Buddhist art in the region. The intricate details and craftsmanship highlight the artistic techniques of the era, making it a noteworthy example of ancient Indian sculpture. This piece is currently under investigation to ensure its preservation and to determine its rightful ownership.
The image titled 'Vishnu, Sena Period, 11th Century' showcases a remarkable blackstone stele from India, specifically discovered in Bengal or Bihar. This artifact dates back to the late 11th century during the Pala/Sena period. It is currently housed at the Benares Hindu University Museum. The stele intricately depicts Vishnu, adorned with traditional iconography reflective of the period's artistic style. The sculpture's detailed craftsmanship exemplifies the era's religious and cultural significance.
The image titled "cover_1.jpg" on Kevin Standage's WordPress blog showcases an ancient artifact from the National Museum in New Delhi. The artifact is a sculpture of Vishnu, dating back to the Gupta period, specifically the 5th Century A.D. This exquisite piece was unearthed in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Vishnu is depicted as a four-armed deity adorned with a jeweled crown, sacred thread, and a long floral garland. Despite some damage, this sculpture is considered one of the finest examples of Hindu art from the Gupta era. The artifact is currently housed at the National Museum in New Delhi.
The image titled 'Bharat Mata' by Abanindranath Tagore, created in 1905, is a significant piece of Indian art. Found in Kolkata, this watercolour painting is now housed in Wikimedia Commons. Abanindranath Tagore, born in Jorasanko Thakurbari, Kolkata, was a pivotal figure in Indian art, known for his role in the Bengal School movement. The painting features a pastoral deity holding symbols of Indian motherhood: a white cloth, a book, a sheaf of paddy, and prayer beads. These elements represent clothing, learning, food, and spiritual salvation, embodying Tagore's vision of a spiritual Indian identity.
The featured image showcases a bronze sculpture by the renowned artist S. Dhanapal, born in Chennai in 1919. Trained at the Government College of Art and Crafts, Dhanapal became an influential figure in post-Independence Indian art, bridging traditional Eastern and modern Western aesthetics. The sculpture was created during his tenure as head of the sculpture department at his alma mater, a position he held from 1957 before eventually becoming its principal in 1972. Currently, this piece is being auctioned by Saffronart. Dhanapal’s works are housed in prestigious collections, including the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi.
The Gautamiputra Yajna Statue is an exquisite representation of ancient Indian art, originating from the Satavahana period. This statue, discovered in the region historically associated with the Satavahanas, showcases the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of its time. Created around the 1st to 2nd century CE, it reflects the cultural and religious dynamics of the era. The statue is currently housed in a prominent museum, where it continues to be studied and admired by historians and art enthusiasts alike. Its intricate details and historical significance make it a valuable artifact, offering insights into the rich legacy of the Satavahana dynasty.
'Ganesh Janani,' painted by Abanindranath Tagore in 1908, is a significant artwork rooted in Indian cultural themes. This painting was created during the Bengal Renaissance, a period that Tagore significantly influenced through his founding of the Bengal School of Art. 'Ganesh Janani' was discovered in Calcutta, India, where Tagore spent much of his life. The artwork depicts a divine maternal figure with the Hindu god Ganesha, characterized by Tagore's unique blend of Mughal and Rajput artistic styles. As of now, this painting is preserved and displayed at various exhibitions and galleries, contributing to the rich heritage of modern Indian art.
The Intan Wreck is a remarkable ancient artifact discovered in the waters off Indonesia. This extraordinary find dates back to the 10th century, offering a captivating glimpse into the maritime history of the region. Unearthed from the depths, the Intan Wreck contains a treasure trove of artifacts, including Chinese ceramics, Middle Eastern glassware, and Southeast Asian bronzes, reflecting the vibrant trade routes of the era. Currently, the artifacts from the Intan Wreck are preserved and studied by maritime archaeologists to unravel the mysteries of ancient trade networks. This significant discovery enriches our understanding of historical commerce and cultural exchange.
The image depicts a remarkable artifact known as the "Emerald Cross," recovered from a 350-year-old Spanish shipwreck in the Bahamas. This exquisite piece, crafted during the late 17th century, exemplifies the opulence of Spanish colonial treasures. The cross is adorned with vibrant emeralds, showcasing the intricate artistry and wealth of the period. Discovered amidst the remains of the sunken galleon, the artifact offers a glimpse into the maritime history and cultural exchanges of the era. Currently, the Emerald Cross is preserved and displayed at the National Museum of Art, highlighting its historical significance and allure to contemporary audiences.
The "Sarnath Capital" is a significant artifact from the Mauryan period, intricately carved and symbolizing the artistic excellence of ancient India. Discovered in Sarnath, the capital showcases a remarkable depiction of four Asiatic lions standing back to back. This emblem, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, exemplifies the Mauryan art's grandeur and symbolism. Originally part of Ashoka's pillar, the capital is a quintessential representation of Buddhist iconography and imperial authority. Currently, this iconic artifact is displayed at the Sarnath Museum in India, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region and its historical importance.
A vibrant depiction of a Bhil woman under the Shimbul tree, showcasing Indian folk traditions.
The "Hand Carved Indian Temple Carving Statue from Gujarat" is an exquisite artifact originating from the early 20th century, found in the Western state of Gujarat, India. This detailed temple sculpture portrays a female Hindu deity adorned with a tall headdress, earrings, a pearl necklace, and a delicate dress. The deity stands gracefully on a lotus flower, with her feet crossed in front. The statue, unfinished at the back, is a testament to the intricate craftsmanship of the period. Currently, this captivating piece is available for viewing and purchase at FEA Home.
The Hand Carved Ashoka Pillars are exquisite wooden sculptures that capture the essence of ancient Indian artistry. Discovered at the historical site of Sarnath, these pillars date back to the Mauryan period, around the 3rd century BCE. They are renowned for their intricate carvings and symbolic significance, representing the spread of Buddhism under Emperor Ashoka. Currently, these remarkable artifacts are featured on the Cultural Elements website, where their craftsmanship is celebrated for its historical and cultural value. Each pillar is a testament to the artistic and spiritual heritage of ancient India, embodying timeless elegance and profound symbolism.
The image titled "Sidhatrtha with an Injured Bird" by Asit Kumar Haldar is an evocative work of art, illustrating a poignant moment from Buddha's life. Created in 1991, this painting is a fine example of Haldar's expertise in capturing historical and religious themes. The artwork was discovered in Jorasanko, Calcutta, during the Bengal renaissance period. Currently, this piece is housed in the Allahabad Museum, where it is part of a larger collection dedicated to Haldar's contributions to Indian art. Asit Kumar Haldar, born in 1890 in Jorasanko, was influenced by the teachings of Rabindranath Tagore and other prominent artists of his time.
The image titled 'Jahangir Visiting the Ascetic Jadrup' is an exquisite example of Mughal miniature painting, created around 1616-1620. This artwork is attributed to the renowned artist Govardhan and captures a historical encounter between Emperor Jahangir and the sage Jadrup. The scene is set in a serene landscape, illustrating the deep spiritual discussions between the emperor and the ascetic. This masterpiece was likely created in the Mughal Empire, reflecting the artistic and cultural richness of the period. Currently, it is housed in the Musée Guimet in Paris, where it continues to captivate visitors with its intricate details and historical significance.