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Rites of the World
Rare 1806 Engraving: Parasati's Fiery Divinity in Hindu Mythology
Anno Domini MDCCCVI1806
€230
$260 · £195
Original print, not a reproduction
Ships worldwide from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked. 14-day returns. To buy, use Ask a question (info@antiquesacredprints.com) and we will reserve it for you.
- Date
- 1806
- Sheet size
- 11.2 × 8.5 in (28.5 × 21.5 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Condition Report: The print shows light foxing and slight yellowing on the edges. A crease is visible in the left margin, but does not affect the central image. Overall, it remains in good condition for its age.
- Faith
- Hinduism
- Collection
- Rites of the World
- Era
- 1800 to 1849, Travellers and the costume books
- Stock no.
- f_45085352
Title: 1806 Engraving: Parasati's Fiery Divinity in Hindu Mythology
Description: This captivating antique print, titled "Parasati," portrays the Hindu goddess Parvati, also known as Parasati, the divine consort of Shiva, embodying feminine power and devotion in Hindu mythology. Published in 1808, this artwork is a notable piece from Pierre Sonnerat's influential travelogue, "Voyage aux Indes orientales et à la Chine," which documents his explorations and cultural observations in India.
Sonnerat, a French naturalist, explorer, and ethnographer, collaborated with the skilled artist Poinson to create this detailed illustration, reflecting the European fascination with Indian spirituality, cosmology, and iconography during the early 19th century. The print depicts Parvati seated in a meditative pose, with four arms holding symbolic objects like a drum, representing her divine energy and connection to Shiva's cosmic dance of creation and destruction.
The artwork was crafted using copperplate engraving, a meticulous technique renowned for its ability to capture fine details, such as the intricate patterns of Parvati's jewelry, the flowing designs of her traditional garments, and the fiery headdress symbolizing her divine power. The flames surrounding her head signify her association with spiritual energy and transformation, a key aspect of her role in Hindu mythology. What makes this print particularly compelling is its portrayal of Hindu goddess iconography through a European artistic lens, highlighting the cross-cultural exchange during a period of colonial exploration.
The detailed rendering of Parvati's serene yet powerful demeanor, along with the symbolic elements like the drum and flames, offers a profound glimpse into the symbolic richness of Hindu mythology, making this piece a valuable artifact of historical, cultural, and artistic significance from the early 19th century.
Condition Report: The print shows light foxing and slight yellowing on the edges. A crease is visible in the left margin, but does not affect the central image. Overall, it remains in good condition for its age.
Framing Tips: Use an acid-free mat to protect against aging. Choose a dark wooden frame with a gold accent to enhance its elegance. Opt for UV-protective glass to prevent fading, and display in a low-humidity space away from direct sunlight.
