Vishnu Venkateshvara, Lord of Tirupati

Tirupati School, South India

Created:
Movement:
1799
None
key Notes:
Devotional Iconography Intricate Ornamentation
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Dimensions:
Image: 10 5/8 × 7 5/16 in. (27 × 18.6 cm)
medium:
Opaque watercolor and hand-colored silver on paper
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"Vishnu Venkateshvara, Lord of Tirupati" is a painting from the Tirupati School of South India, created in the late 18th century. This artwork depicts Lord Venkateshvara, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, who is particularly revered in the Tirupati region. The painting is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate detailing, typical of the regional style. The Tirupati School is known for its devotional themes and the use of traditional iconography. The specific artist of this painting is unknown. The work reflects the cultural and religious significance of Venkateshvara in South Indian society. It is often associated with the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, a major pilgrimage site. The painting serves as both a religious object and a representation of the artistic practices of the time. Its historical context is tied to the patronage of temple art in South India during the late 18th century. The painting is part of a broader tradition of devotional art that aims to inspire reverence and devotion among viewers.

Description of the work:

"Vishnu Venkateshvara, Lord of Tirupati" is a late 18th-century painting from the Tirupati School of South India, executed in opaque watercolor and hand-colored silver on paper. The composition features the deity Vishnu Venkateshvara, depicted with multiple arms and adorned with intricate jewelry and a crown. The figure is set against a richly detailed background that includes architectural elements and lush vegetation, characteristic of the region's devotional art. The use of vibrant colors enhances the visual impact, while the application of silver adds a luminous quality to the work. The meticulous attention to detail in the clothing and ornaments reflects the craftsmanship of the period. The overall arrangement emphasizes the divine presence of the deity, inviting contemplation and reverence.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Vishnu Venkateshvara, Lord of Tirupati