• Additional view of object
Mar 17, 2014

Goddesses Lakshmi and Sarasvati (verso), from a Kalighat album

Goddesses Lakshmi and Sarasvati (verso), from a Kalighat album

c. 1890

Part of a set. See all set records

Eastern India, Bengal, Kolkata, Kalighat

Gum tempera, graphite, ink, and tin on paper

Secondary Support: 40.5 x 30 cm (15 15/16 x 11 13/16 in.); Painting only: 45.3 x 28.4 cm (17 13/16 x 11 3/16 in.)

Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward 2003.150.b

Location

not on view

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Description

This is a symmetrical painting of two goddesses, each standing on a lotus (symbolizing beauty and purity). Both are considered in Bengali folklore to be sisters and the daughters of the goddess Durga. Lakshmi, goddess of fortune, prosperity, and beauty, and wife of Vishnu, is holding an unfinished flower. Sarasvati, goddess of knowledge, learning, and patroness of the fine arts, is holding a stringed instrument, which represents refined training and education. Sarasvati is white skinned, signifying purity.

See also
Collection: 
Indian Art
Department: 
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Type of artwork: 
Painting
Medium: 
Gum tempera, graphite, ink, and tin on paper
Credit line: 
Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward

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