Indian art has been influential throughout history, and it's widely respected around the globe.
Raja Ravi Varma was an Indian painter who represented the culture, beauty and vibrancy of the Indian subcontinent in his artwork. His pieces continue to influence artists and non-professionals in 2016.
Raja Ravi Varma's Self-Portrait
Photo Credit: www.wiki.cultured.com
Varma’s art grasps feminine sexuality in a surprising way. It has become the obsession of art enthusiasts and artists worldwide. Illustrating the compassion, strength and elegance of women, these pieces have caught the attention of 21st-century feminists.
Combining European artistry with his very own Indian artistry, Varma was a pioneer of cultural understanding in art. Unsurprisingly, he swept up various awards in his lifetime.
Powerful, imaginative and empowering, here are ten oil paintings by the celebrated painter.
1. "Damayanthi and a Swan"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
This painting was inspired by the Mahabharata. a well-known narrative of Nala and Damayanthi.
2. "Lady with the Lamp"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Profound and thought-provoking, "Lady with the Lamp" showcases a woman's face illuminated in candlelight. Varma precisely illustrates this figure protecting the burning flicker with her bare hands as her eyes glare away. This painting conjures the strong sense of a subliminal message.
3. "Lady with Milk"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Young and naive, this milkmaid oozes modesty as she covers her face with her dupatta while cautiously carrying a pot of milk.
4. "Gypsy Woman and Family"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Varma reveals his compassionate and progressive mindset as he showcases an Indian gypsy family. A mother plays the sitar as her children sit in despair and misery in harsh conditions of poverty. Varma illustrates the strength of feminine sexuality in a picture of survival and endurance.
5. "Two Lovers"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Varma shows the beauty of the relationship between men and women in this alluring painting of two lovers. A man deeply gazes at his lover as she hides her smile. She's dressed in a beautiful traditional saree.
6. "Mother and Her Child"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
This painting manifests the beauty of motherhood and feminity as a mother and her daughter gaze into a mirror together. The child's expressions are clear as she radiates curiosity while her mother comforts her.
7. "Portrait of a Lady"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
A stunning woman powerfully sits with robust composure as she watches on. Dressed in a graceful saree, she represents a well-cultured woman who is proud of her nation.
8. "Woman Holding Fruit"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
An Indian woman elegantly holds fruit in a manner that signifies authority and power. Dressed in elegant jewellery and traditional clothing, this woman signifies honour, dignity and respect.
9. "Sad Lady with Letter"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
A woman expresses sadness and grief as she uncomfortably holds a doomed letter. The painter reveals her sorrow through her eyes, which fiercely gaze above.
10. "Lady in Contemplation"
Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Varma presents a woman sitting in contemplation, leaning against a wall. She suggests emotions of great significance.
Main Image Photo Credit: www.desiblitz.com
Ramsha Khan
Author
Ramsha is a 21 year old British Pakistani writer, journalist and an undergraduate studying Politics and International Relations in England, U.K. Fiercely opinionated and fun at the same time, she openly strives to challenge cultural, social and political broad narratives; especially whilst livi...
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