Bhuvaneshvari Devi — Lalita Kapilavai
© Lalita Kapilavai. Sacred Art & Carnatic Music Archive. Digital reproduction, automated screen captures, and unauthorized printings are strictly prohibited.
Bhuvaneshvari Devi
Natural pigments, shell gold, shell silver, beetle wings on wasli paper • L= 18.7cms; W= 17.5cms
Bhuvaneshvari Devi
Iconographic Commentary & Symbolism
She is one of forms of Dashamahavidyas in Tantric cult who personifies divine knowledge. She bears goad, noose, lotus in her hands and the fourth arm is in varada mudra bestowing wishes to the seekers. With three quarter face she poses a powerful appearance which is further enriched by her adornments and the golden rays emerging from behind. Usually we find images in profile in miniature painting traditions and this image is rare sporting three quarters of the face.
The bodice revealing portion of the breasts, the design of the carpet, pearl strands and a single strand of hair hanging over the face are some of the common features found in many paintings of the Basohli tradition.
