Tranquil Roopa Of Devi Durga, With Superb Detailing

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The kalamkari Durga is beauteous and tranquil. While Her beauty cannot be disputed, wrath and not tranquility characterises the major part of Her iconography. She is the ashtabhujadhari (eight-armed) simhavahini (lion-rider) Devi, seated in lalitasana on its back. Like traditional Devi Durga compositions, the weapons in Her hands constitute Her shringar; and it is from traditional Devi Durga compositions that certain aspects of this kalamkari set Her apart. One of Her anterior hands is raised in blessing, another one bears a lotus that rests delicately on the lap of Her saree. Her face is soft-featured, and bears a composure of supreme compassion and stability. The Shaivite tilak on Her temple serves as Her husband's presence in this painting, without which no projection of the Devi Herself is ever complete.

The word 'kalamkari' is a portmanteau of 'kalam' (pen) and 'kari' (handiwork). The kalam in question is a sprig of bamboo sculpted into the shape of a rudimentary pen. The kari is done on a section of very specifically treated fabric canvas, using homemade colours put together from organic pigments. This form of folk art has been practised in Andhra Pradesh, its Southern roots quite visible in this particular composition. From the tall tapering crown of the Devi Durga to the highly detailed motifs in the background. In fact, the level of detailing done in each unit surface area of the painting is quintessentially kalamkari - zoom in on the pleats of the Devi's saree, the engravings on Her crown, ad the body of the simha to appreciate the same. This work of art is designed to be hung solo on a wall in your space, making for an imposing statement.