Vikram Pawar Indian Art Explorer By Vikram
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Amaravati Marbles - Wikipedia
Amaravati Marbles - Wikipedia

The Amaravati Collection, also known as the Amaravati Marbles, is a remarkable series of 120 limestone sculptures and inscriptions housed in the British Museum, London. Originating from the Amaravati Stupa in Amaravathi, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India, these artifacts were created between the 1st century BCE and the 8th century CE. They were discovered in 1797 and later removed by Sir Walter Elliot to Madras in the 1840s. The Amaravati Marbles feature intricate reliefs depicting scenes from the Jataka tales, representing one of the most significant collections of ancient Indian sculpture outside the subcontinent.

Sigiriya Rock Cave Wall Paintings, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Rock Cave Wall Paintings, Sri Lanka

The Sigiriya Rock Cave Wall Paintings, located in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, are exquisite examples of ancient art from the 5th century AD. These murals, found within the rock fortress of Sigiriya, depict celestial maidens, believed to be apsaras, adorned in intricate jewelry and traditional clothing. The vibrant frescoes are painted on the western face of the rock, known as the 'Mirror Wall,' which historically reflected the images like a mirror. Currently, these magnificent artworks are preserved on-site and are accessible to visitors, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and artistic mastery.

A sculpture of Buddha in Nalanda University
A sculpture of Buddha in Nalanda University

The image titled 'A sculpture of Buddha in Nalanda University' showcases an exquisite ancient artifact found at Nalanda University in Bihar, India. This sculpture, representing Buddha, dates back to a period between the 5th and 12th centuries CE, reflecting the rich cultural and religious history of the era. Currently, the image is available on Wikimedia Commons, an extensive repository of free-use media files. Nalanda University was a renowned center of learning and the sculpture exemplifies the high level of artistry and devotion prevalent during its time. The serene expression and intricate details of the Buddha sculpture offer a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic accomplishments of ancient India.

Balarama Sculpture, Patan, Gujarat
Balarama Sculpture, Patan, Gujarat

The "Balarama Sculpture, Patan, Gujarat" by Sharvari Mehendale, uploaded on June 26th, 2020, showcases a stunning piece of digital artwork. The sculpture is part of the inner wall of the intricately constructed stepwell, Rani ki vav, located on the banks of the Saraswati River in Patan, Gujarat, India. This stepwell, a memorial to an 11th-century AD King Bhimdev I, features seven levels of stairs and over 500 principal sculptures. The detailed carvings and ornate design reflect the rich history and heritage of ancient Hindu architecture. The color palette includes earthy tones like 241D19, 564E4B, A4A0A1, and DEDEE3, enhancing its historical ambiance.

Painting by Kshitindranath Majumdar
Painting by Kshitindranath Majumdar

The painting titled "Painting" by Kshitindranath Majumdar, created around 1910-1920 in Bengal, depicts a serene scene of a young woman in a white sari seated beneath a tree on a terrace near water, holding a lota (waterpot). Majumdar (1891-1975), a prominent figure of the Bengal School of Art, is known for his Vaishnavite and literary themes. This artwork, painted in watercolour wash on paper, draws influences from Ajanta murals and Far Eastern techniques. Initially part of the Niranjan Niyogi Family Collection in Calcutta, it is now housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Islamic Book Painting
Islamic Book Painting

The "Islamic Book Painting" is a miniature artwork from circa 1450, originating from a manuscript during the Sultanate period before the Mughal era in 1526. Found in Western India, this piece reflects a strong influence from Jain art, evident in its vivid palette and unique figure depiction. The painting portrays Rustam without his usual leopard helmet and tiger caftan, killing the Turanian hero Alkus, whose eyes are dramatically shown in his death throes. The hierarchic perspective is notable, with heroes depicted larger than the foreground figures. This artifact is currently accessible through Alamy's digital collection.

Chinese Shipwreck Treasures Revealed
Chinese Shipwreck Treasures Revealed

The Chinese Shipwreck Treasures, discovered by Tilman Walterfang, include a significant artifact: a green glazed ceramic box from the Intan shipwreck, showcasing ancient craftsmanship and cultural exchange.

Bid & Hammer > ASIT KUMAR HALDAR (1890 - 1964)
Bid & Hammer > ASIT KUMAR HALDAR (1890 - 1964)

The featured artwork is an untitled piece by Asit Kumar Haldar (1890-1964), a prominent Indian painter associated with the Bengal school. This work portrays a contemplative banjaran, or gypsy girl, adorned in vibrant garments and silver jewelry. Haldar, born in Jorasanko, Calcutta, was a grand-nephew of Rabindranath Tagore and trained under Abanindranath Tagore. The painting exemplifies his distinctive style with its lyrical quality and expert use of wash technique. Haldar's works are part of notable collections, including the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. This image is currently available on Bid & Hammer.

9 Paintings by S.L Haldankar that show him to be a "Master of ..."
9 Paintings by S.L Haldankar that show him to be a "Master of ..."

This watercolor masterpiece, "Woman with the Lamp," was created by S.L. Haldankar in the early 20th century. It depicts a serene woman holding a lamp, capturing intricate light effects.