An illustration to a Devi Mahatmya series: Devi venerated by Trimurti, India, Punjab Hills, Kangra or Mandi, circa 1810

This painting is an illustration to the Devi Mahatmya ('Glorification of the Goddess'), a seven-hundred verse text in Sanskrit, which forms the fourth and penultimate part of the Markandeya Purana. It describes Devi as the supreme power and creator of the Universe, and narrates her battles with various demons in her avatar as the Great Goddess. Here she is depicted being venerated by the Trimurti which is formed by Brahma, the Creator; Vishnu, the Preserver; and Shiva, the Destroyer. The celestial musician, Narada, standing below Brahma bows to the Goddess, while other minor gods who have come to pay their respects stand to her left. Her vahana (or vehicle), the lion, depicted here as a tiger, is seated below her golden throne. 

This illustration bears stylistic similarities with early nineteenth century Pahari paintings from both Kangra and Mandi. Works from Mandi created at this time exhibit a strong influence of Kangra painting. This change in style at Mandi concided with the arrival of the Kangra artist, Sajnu, at the court of Raja Isvari Sen of Mandi in 1808. 

For an earlier comparable composition painted in Basohli, circa 1660-70, depicting Devi seated on a lotus upon a golden throne, being adored by the Gods, including Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, see Welch 1985, no.265, p.390.