Apr 29, 2009

Jain Temple, Calcutta

Jain Temple, Calcutta

c. 1890s

Platinum print

Image: 28.8 x 24.2 cm (11 5/16 x 9 1/2 in.); Paper: 28.8 x 24.2 cm (11 5/16 x 9 1/2 in.); Matted: 50.8 x 40.6 cm (20 x 16 in.)

Jo Hershey Selden Fund 2009.13

Location

Description

With the rise of Calcutta (now Kolkata) as an urban center in the 1800s, a jeweler named Rai Badridas Bahadur Mookim (1833–1913) relocated there from the northern Indian city of Lucknow, along with many other Jain merchants. He ordered the construction of this temple, studded with colored glass, dedicated to the 23rd Jina Parshva. It was completed in 1867. His portrait sculpture is seen from behind in the forecourt, under the domed pavilion.

The annual festival of Paryushan is celebrated at this temple, where manuscripts—especially of the Kalpa-sutra—are displayed, carried in processions, and read aloud to the congregation.

See also
Collection: 
Photography
Department: 
Photography
Type of artwork: 
Photograph

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