Vasakasajja Nayika, page from a Natya Shastra (Drama Scripture) of Bharata Muni

Description

At the center of the painting is a large gold chair. Its legs are delicately carved and its sides feature oval-shaped cartouches with flowering plants. It is upholstered in white fabric with red flowers and has matching side cushions. Seated with one leg up on the chair is a female figure, who represents the Vasakasajja Nayika, or the heroine that dressed up in preparation for union with her lover. She is wears a long green dress with red trim and a matching green headscarf. She is adorned with bracelets, pearl necklaces, earrings, rings, and a nose ring. The figure is in the process of applying kohl with her right hand. Draped across her lap is a white hookah pipe that leads to the base across from her. Behind her is a female attendant. She wears a white dress with small green flowers. Her translucent orange headscarf is loosely draped around her head, exposing her long black hair. Her right arm is extended and in her hand she holds a fly whisk about the seated female figure. She is also adorned with bracelets, arm bands, rings, earrings, and necklaces. The floor is covered with a white rug decorated with orange flowers and scrolling leaves. The white angular walls feature carved, decorative niches. Behind the seated female figure is an exposed balcony with a small ledge, beyond which can be seen blossoming cherry trees. Pahari Style, Kangra School.