The Gods Sing and Dance for Shiva and Parvati

Currently not on view

The Gods Sing and Dance for Shiva and Parvati

c. 1780-1790

Attributed to Khushala (Indian, active late 18th century)

Shiva and his wife Parvati rest on a tiger skin as they watch a pair of dancers accompanied by divine musicians. The group of performers is so large that it winds away behind the trees. Shiva, the great yogi, can be identified by his ash-white skin, long hair, snake jewelry, and third eye. However, he is shown here not as a terrifying ascetic god, but as a lovely prince on a bucolic outing. The text that this painting illustrates is unknown, but the scene may represent the celebration when Shiva accepts Parvati as his bride.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

The Gods Sing and Dance for Shiva and Parvati
Page from an unidentified dispersed series

Date:

c. 1780-1790

Artist:

Attributed to Khushala (Indian, active late 18th century)

Medium:

Opaque watercolor and gold on paper

Dimensions:

Image: 8 × 12 inches (20.3 × 30.5 cm) Sheet: 9 × 12 15/16 inches (22.9 × 32.9 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

125th Anniversary Acquisition. Alvin O. Bellak Collection, 2004

Accession Number:

2004-149-77

Geography:

Made in Himachal Pradesh, India, Asia Probably made in Guler, Himachal Pradesh, India, Asia or made in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India, Asia

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view