Important Notice

UNIARA, CIRCA 1760
Gouache on paper heightened with gold
Image: 9.75 x 6.5 in (24.7 x 16.5 cm)
Folio: 11.75 x 8.5 in (29.8 x 21.5 cm)

NON-EXPORTABLE REGISTERED ANTIQUITY

PROVENANCE
The Tandan Collection


This painting illustrates the legend of the Agnikunda, which tells of the origins of the Agnivanshi Rajputs. The Agnivanshis are Rajputs who claim to have descended from Agni, the Fire God. According to legend, Parashurama, an avatar of Vishnu and an enemy to the kshatriyas or warrior clan, wipes out all Rajputs from the earth. To restore balance and defend righteousness, sage Vashishtha performs a great yagna. The Gods, pleased with him, grant him his wish, and a youth rises from the fire in response. He is the first Agnivanshi Rajput.

Here, Vashishtha is seen with hands folded in prayer, along with Lord Brahma. Brahma holds the Vedas in two hands, a small vessel in the third, and a ladle in the fourth, with which he pours offerings into the holy fire. The silhouette of a Rajput youth with a sword and shield, emerging from the fire is painted with subtlety.

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