The **Sena Sculpture** is a significant representation of Hindu deities, crafted during the Sena dynasty era (circa 1097-1223 AD), and is an extension of the late Pala style. This particular sculpture, depicting Vishnu, was discovered in Churain, Dhaka. Characterized by its elongated body form and intricate decorative motifs, the artwork exemplifies the era's artistic tendencies, albeit with a noted decline in modeling quality compared to earlier Pala sculptures. Currently, this exquisite silver image of Vishnu is housed in the Indian Museum, Calcutta. The piece is esteemed for its detailed craftsmanship, reflecting the lavish and sensuous style of Sena period art.
The image titled 'Ganesh Janani' by Abanindranath Tagore portrays the divine mother of Lord Ganesha. This exquisite artwork was created in 1908 and showcases Tagore's skillful blend of Mughal and Rajput painting styles, reflecting his mission to revive traditional Indian art forms during the Bengal Renaissance. The painting was found in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Currently, this masterpiece is preserved and displayed at the Indian Museum in Kolkata. Tagore's integration of Indian cultural motifs and spiritual themes stands as a testament to his influential role in the development of modern Indian painting.
An artifact showcasing the artistry of the 10th-century trade routes.
The artifact depicted is a "Copper Plate with Inscription Recording a Land Grant of King Vijayasena of Bengal," originating from the Sena Dynasty, which reigned in Bengal from 1097 to 1245. This copper plate was unearthed in the Bengal region, encapsulating the historical significance of the Sena Empire's administrative and religious practices. The plate features the royal seal of the Sena Dynasty, showcasing a ten-armed figure of the god Shiva. Currently, this artifact is housed in The British Museum, serving as a tangible link to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of ancient Bengal.
The image titled "Chughtai Pin Page" features the artwork "Dream" by M.A.R. Chughtai, a renowned Pakistani artist who lived from 1899 to 1975. This exquisite piece, created using wash and tempera on paper, measures 44x56.5 cm. It was discovered in Pakistan and dates back to the early 20th century. Currently, "Dream" is housed at the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi. The artwork portrays a serene and ethereal scene, characteristic of Chughtai’s unique style that blends traditional Islamic art with modernist influences, evoking a sense of mystery and contemplation.
This image showcases various treasures from Chinese shipwrecks, illustrating the rich maritime trade of the past.
The image titled "Loving Couple (Mithuna)," is a remarkable sculpture from the Eastern Ganga dynasty, dating back to the 13th century. It was discovered in Orissa, India, and is crafted from ferruginous stone, standing at an impressive height of 72 inches (182.9 cm). This exquisite piece of art depicts a pair of intertwined lovers, symbolizing divine unity and affection. The sculpture is currently housed in a museum, making it accessible for public viewing and study. For more details about the image, you can visit the source website at [Alamy](https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-loving-couple-mithuna-eastern-ganga-dynasty-13th-century-india-orissa-162536309.html).
This image captures a 19th-century artist's impression of Gautamiputra Satakarani, a significant ruler of the Satavahana dynasty, celebrating his achievements. The Satavahana empire, known for its rich artistic heritage, flourished in ancient India and left a lasting impact on art and culture. This depiction serves as a reminder of the empire's historical importance and the legacy of its rulers.
The image titled 'Emperor Jahangir Weighs Prince Khurram' depicts a significant historical scene showcasing Mughal Emperor Jahangir weighing his son, Prince Khurram, who later became Shah Jahan, against gold and silver. This ceremonial event highlights the royal customs of the Mughal court. The artwork originates from the Indian subcontinent, likely created during the early 17th century, capturing the opulence and grandeur of the Mughal era. The painting is housed on Wikimedia Commons, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and intricate artistry of the Mughal period, reflecting their sophisticated societal rituals and artistic achievements.
The image titled "Kondiah Raju | Chithiraalayam" showcases an exquisite artwork created by the renowned artist Kondiah Raju. This particular piece stands as a testament to the artistic prowess that flourished under his guidance in his gurukulam. The artifact likely dates back to the early to mid-20th century, a period when Kondiah Raju and his disciples were actively contributing to the calendar art painting industry in South Asia. This artwork, along with other notable pieces from Kondiah Raju, is currently featured on the Chithiraalayam website, a dedicated platform celebrating his legacy and the rich cultural heritage of his creations.
The Kacha Type coin from the Gupta period represents the artistic and cultural richness of ancient India. This gold dinar features the king in a posture of sacrifice, enhancing its historical significance. The reverse showcases goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Such coins were not only currency but also a medium of artistic expression and religious devotion. Their intricate designs reflect the high level of craftsmanship prevalent during the Gupta Empire, often referred to as the Golden Age of India.
The image titled "Syncretism in Bengal Art," showcases an untitled watercolor by Sanat Chatterjee, created on handmade paper. This artwork exemplifies the rich blending of various cultural and religious influences that characterize Bengal's artistic heritage. Originating from Bengal, a region known for its cultural confluence, this piece was crafted during a period marked by significant artistic evolution influenced by European realism and pan-Asian aesthetics. The artwork currently resides in the DAG collection, as part of their exploration of the syncretic legacy in South Asian art. This untitled piece underscores the intricate fusion of diverse artistic traditions.
The Jataka Image in Ajanta is a captivating mural that showcases the rich artistic heritage of ancient India. Located in Cave 1, this painting features Bodhisattvas Padmapani and Vajrapani, surrounded by intricate motifs and divine symbols. The vibrant colors and detailed features reflect the profound narrative of the Jataka tales, illustrating the life and teachings of Buddha. This masterpiece not only serves as a religious icon but also as an embodiment of the artistic finesse that flourished in the Ajanta caves, highlighting their significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The image showcases artifacts retrieved from the Java Sea Wreck, an ancient shipwreck discovered in the Java Sea. These artifacts are believed to date back to the 9th century, a period known for flourishing maritime trade in Southeast Asia. The shipwreck was initially found by local fishermen, and its artifacts have since provided valuable insights into ancient trade networks and cultural exchanges. The current research aims to uncover more about the ship's origin and the nature of its cargo. The artifacts from the Java Sea Wreck are currently under study, with findings published on the New Mandala website.
The Dampati sculpture from the Satavahana Empire represents the artistic excellence of the period. Dating back to the 1st century B.C., this exquisite artwork portrays a couple, showcasing the intricate details and craftsmanship that characterized Satavahana art. The couple is depicted in a tender embrace, reflecting the cultural values of love and partnership in ancient Indian society. The sculpture not only serves as a testament to the technical skills of the artisans but also provides insight into the social dynamics and aesthetics of the time, making it a valuable piece for historical study.
"Mother and Child" (Ed: 9) by S. Dhanapal is an evocative bronze sculpture created in 1957. Found in Chennai, India, where Dhanapal was born and trained, this piece reflects the artist's mastery in capturing the tender bond between mother and child. Measuring 18.5 x 13 x 10 inches, the sculpture is a notable example of figurative art from post-Independence India. Currently, this artwork is part of an exhibition at Saffronart, a premier platform for Indian art. Dhanapal, a prominent sculptor and former Head of the Sculpture Department at the Government College of Art and Crafts in Chennai, passed away in 2000.
