Illustration to Kirata-Arjuniya Episode, from a Mahabharata series Kangra, circa 1820  Opaque watercolor heightened with gold on paper Image: 13 ¾ x 18 ½ in. (34.93 x 47 cm.) Folio: 15 ½ x 19 ⅞ in. (39.4 x 50.5 cm.) A Sanskrit epic, written by Bhairavi in the 6th century, the Kirata-Arjuniya episode revolves around the encounter of Pandava Prince Arjun with Lord Shiva (in disguise of a Kirata, a mountain dwelling hunter).  During the Pandavas' exile, Arjuna encountered a demon in the form of a boar. After Arjuna killed the boar in self-defense, a dispute arose with Shiva, disguised as a hunter, claiming he had shot first. Despite Arjuna's use of divine weapons, he couldn't defeat the hunter. Recognizing the hunter as Shiva, Arjuna sought forgiveness. Shiva revealed his identity, and blessed Arjuna with powerful weapons, including the Pashupatastra, strengthening him for the Kurukshetra War.

This artwork beautifully encapsulates the quintessence of the Kangra style by incorporating a distinctive bold border adorned with foliate motifs that gracefully traverse the composition. The airbrushed portrayal of trees and the opulent landscape, coupled with the application of linear perspective for depth, depicts the typical Kangra paintings of its era. Notably, the majority of figures are depicted inside or quarter profile. The meticulous detailing of weaponry, jewels, and clothing in the depictions of Arjuna as a warrior prince and Shiva as the Kirata hunter underscores the exquisite artistry inherent in Kangra miniatures.

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