by Godhu. From the Ramayana series.
Kangra School. Around 1785 AD.
During his exile in the forest Rama meets many sages, both men and women. From each one he learns something new. Sage Agastya, a renowned philosopher, teaches Rama many things about Kingship, and about weapons. In the upper left corner we see Rama sitting with his hands clasped in a gesture of submission. In the centre, a pupil of the sage has come down to fetch water from the river. In the right side of the painting, Rama and Laxman swim to the other shore of the river, while Sita floats on a raft. In the upper right corner, the three live in a simple hut surrounded by deer and peacocks.
Godhu is known for complex narrative technique where different episodes of Ramayana are placed in the same painting. He is also known for his almost three-dimensional landscapes with a feel of deep depth in them. One can walk miles through the hills and dales of his paintings. Unlike the Mughal miniatures, there is a sense of realism in his works.
Though considered to be a god, Lord Rama is epitome of humility. He bows and learns from everyone. Humility and the ability to learn permits us to cross the river of life. Though the forest is full of wildlife, one finds only deer and peacocks--symbols of beauty and bounty if one has the correct perspective about life.
Godhu is known for complex narrative technique where different episodes of Ramayana are placed in the same painting. He is also known for his almost three-dimensional landscapes with a feel of deep depth in them. One can walk miles through the hills and dales of his paintings. Unlike the Mughal miniatures, there is a sense of realism in his works.
Though considered to be a god, Lord Rama is epitome of humility. He bows and learns from everyone. Humility and the ability to learn permits us to cross the river of life. Though the forest is full of wildlife, one finds only deer and peacocks--symbols of beauty and bounty if one has the correct perspective about life.
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