Important Notice

PAHARI, CIRCA 1820
Inscribed in Nagari 'Mahesh' at the lower left, 'Vishnu' at the lower centre and 'Brahma' at the lower right
Gouache on paper heightened with gold
Image: 6.5 x 10.75 in (17.1 x 27.8 cm)
Folio: 7 x 11.25 in (18.2 x 29 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
Property from a Distinguished Family Collection


The painting is executed as a triptych, with each panel highlighting the importance of the Trimurthis or Trinity: Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Shiva the Destroyer. Shiva is seated on a tiger skin in the left panel, with his trident and rudraksha necklace, a symbol of meditation. Mount Kailash, his abode, is seen in the background. The centre panel shows Vishnu with his attributes: the discus, conch, mace and lotus. Brahma is depicted holding the Vedas or Holy Scriptures, a rudraksha necklace, a vessel, and a ladle. An assortment of ritual objects is spread out in front of the three Gods.

In Hinduism, the Trinity represents the highest form of divinity responsible for maintaining the cosmos. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are bestowed with the highest importance. The Puranas are replete with stories of their intervention to save the devas or their devotees from the destructive forces of the asuras, or granting boons to those who pray to them with dedication. The Trinity assume various avatars to rid the earth of evil or restore balance to the cosmos.

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