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A Group of Four Illustrations from the Devi Mahatmya: Vishnu Battles the Demons Kaitava and Madhu
Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 USD
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Description
- A Group of Four Illustrations from the Devi Mahatmya: Vishnu Battles the Demons Kaitava and Madhu
Opaque watercolor heightened with gold on paper
- image 7 5/8 by 11 5/8 (19.4 by 29.4 cm.) and slightly smaller
- folio 10 1/4 by 14 1/4 in. (26.1 by 36.2 cm.) and slightly smaller, [4], unframed, 1 illustrated
The present group of illustrations is from the first chapter of the Devi Mahatmya and relate the beginning of the story of how Devi, the Great Goddess, assumed her omniscient form as the bearer of Supreme Power or Shakti.
The narrative begins with Vishnu, pictured above in his Anantasyayin form, lying in yoganidra, a deeply meditative state of consciousness induced by the Great Goddess, on his serpent Sheshanaga in the cosmic ocean, with Brahma issuing from his navel creating the universe. This universal order is threatened by two demons Kaitava and Madhu who attempt to abduct Brahma and thereby break the cycle of Creation. Brahma then invokes Mahayogini, the Great Goddess, and pleads with her to withdraw from Vishnu so that he may awaken from his meditative sleep and engage the demons. The Goddess acquiesces and as Vishnu awakens his ensuing wrath is terrible. The demons are easily vanquished and cosmic order is restored thanks to the beneficence of Devi.
The Devi Mahatmya is part of the Markandeya Purana which principally relates the myths and legends of Vishnu. This text is significant as one of the earliest Puranas and formed the basis of the Shakti cult which flourished in later times and was particularly popular in the Punjab Hills region.
The narrative begins with Vishnu, pictured above in his Anantasyayin form, lying in yoganidra, a deeply meditative state of consciousness induced by the Great Goddess, on his serpent Sheshanaga in the cosmic ocean, with Brahma issuing from his navel creating the universe. This universal order is threatened by two demons Kaitava and Madhu who attempt to abduct Brahma and thereby break the cycle of Creation. Brahma then invokes Mahayogini, the Great Goddess, and pleads with her to withdraw from Vishnu so that he may awaken from his meditative sleep and engage the demons. The Goddess acquiesces and as Vishnu awakens his ensuing wrath is terrible. The demons are easily vanquished and cosmic order is restored thanks to the beneficence of Devi.
The Devi Mahatmya is part of the Markandeya Purana which principally relates the myths and legends of Vishnu. This text is significant as one of the earliest Puranas and formed the basis of the Shakti cult which flourished in later times and was particularly popular in the Punjab Hills region.
Provenance
Acquired from the Royal Library of Mandi in 1969
Condition
Good overall condition. Very minor flaking to the ground and sea of two illustrations. Devanagari inscriptions on reverse of all four. Colors brighter that catalogue illustration. Displayed in temporary frames for exhibition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.