Meghamallar Ragini (painting, recto), from a Ragamala (Garland of Melodies) Series
early 17th century
Description
The Meghamallar Ragini is visualized as a prince or Krishna dancing in the rain. It is a joyful melody associated with the nighttime and the monsoon rains in July–August. In the painting, the bejeweled prince is in the center, holding a veena and dancing joyously in the forest. On either side are female musicians; one of them plays a double-faced drum or a mridangam, while the other plays cymbals or a manjira. The sky is filled with clouds, signifying the incoming rains. Storks fly in the sky, enhancing the auspicious atmosphere. The trees are laden with blossoms. This painting is a pictorial metaphor for a raga, a musical phrase that is used as the basis for improvisation, belonging to a Ragamala or “Garland of Melodies” series. Rajput, Rajasthani, Sirohi School.
Dimensions
image: 16.5 x 12.3 cm (6 1/2 x 4 13/16 in.) framed: 48.58 x 38.42 x 2.22 cm (19 1/8 x 15 1/8 x 7/8 in.)
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