Battle Scene from a Devi Mahatmya

late 18th century
Not on view
The epic battle between the forces of the goddess Durga and those of a hoard of asuras, or demons, illustrates the power and varied forms of Devi. Centrally placed on the left is Durga on her lion; below, the emaciated Chamunda (Durga's terrifying aspect) advances. Surrounding them are female manifestations of the Hindu pantheon, the Matrikas; flying above are Vaishnavi on Garuda, Kaumari on a peacock, and Brahmani on a swan, while Indrani rides on an elephant and Maheswari on a bull.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Battle Scene from a Devi Mahatmya
  • Date: late 18th century
  • Culture: India (Pahari Hills, Guler)
  • Medium: Ink, wash, and translucent watercolor on paper
  • Dimensions: Image (sight): 7 5/8 x 11 3/8 in. (19.4 x 28.9 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Gift of Subhash Kapoor, in memory of his parents, Smt Shashi Kanta and Shree Parshotam Ram Kapoor, 2008
  • Object Number: 2008.359.10
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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