Ramayana
126 depicts the much known episode also described by Vālmiki. The aśvamedha yajna is in progress. As per Vālmiki’s description in Sarga 91 and 92, the site chosen for the aśvamedha yajna was Naimisharanya on the banks of Ganga. In the painting the artist has delineated a special architectural structure as the venue and only the essential ritual accessories and main characters are delineated and identified by inscriptions. Rāma as the chief yajmān, while the presiding priest Vasistha, is seated prominently face to face. Next to Rāma are placed golden statue of Sitā, and a little further are Bharata, Hanumān, Angada, Sugriva and Jambvan, in that order. Next to Vasistha is seated Viśvāmitra and on the opposite side facing Rāma are the soldiers with Laksamana in the front. They join the ritual and also are seeking permission to leave for the battlefield. Very interestingly, on the left, the painter has depicted the army including Laksamana turning into opposite direction, and represented as riding on horses.
Article Code No:
NCM 202.5 (Folio 126)
Outer or folio measurement:
26.3 x 31
Verified:
Not Verified
Period:
18
Main location:
Reserve
Sub location:
SR
C 4.V
C 4.V
Remarks on condition of painting:
Good
Remarks:
Donated to Gujarat Museum Society
by Smt Shanta Mehta
in the year 1961
by Smt Shanta Mehta
in the year 1961
Folio Published or reference book:
Yes
Category:
Painting
Price:
0 INR