Original Raja Ravi Varma Lithograph: Hamsa Damyanti

The lithograph “Hamsa Damyanti” is based on a famous scene from the Mahabharata. It depicts Damyanti, the princess of Vidarbha, receiving messages of love from Nala, the king of Nishadha, through a swan (Hamsa). The swan acts as a divine messenger, narrating Nala’s feelings to Damyanti, symbolizing pure love and connection.

Raja Ravi Varma, known for his mastery of narrative art, captures this moment with exceptional grace and emotional depth. His ability to convey nuanced expressions and delicate emotions through lithographs made his works widely admired and accessible. Lithographs like this one were among the first to bring Indian mythology into middle-class homes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The original lithograph of “Hamsa Damyanti” was likely printed at the Ravi Varma Press, established by the artist in 1894 to produce affordable prints of his paintings. These lithographs retain the aesthetic appeal of his original paintings, showcasing intricate details, vivid colors, and mythological themes.

About Raja Ravi Varma

Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) is one of the most celebrated artists in Indian history. Often hailed as the “Father of Modern Indian Art,” he is known for blending traditional Indian themes with European techniques, creating a unique and enduring artistic legacy.

Key Contributions:

• Revolutionizing Indian Art: Ravi Varma brought mythology and classical Indian culture to life using oil painting, a medium introduced to India by the British.
• Lithographic Prints: He democratized art by producing affordable lithographs of his works, making Indian mythology accessible to the masses.
• Fusion of Styles: His art seamlessly combined Indian traditions with Western realism, giving mythological figures a humanized and relatable look.

Famous Works:

• Hamsa Damyanti: A beloved narrative from the Mahabharata.
• Shakuntala: Depicts Shakuntala writing a love letter to Dushyanta.
• Saraswati: Goddess Saraswati shown in her full grace.
• Lakshmi: Goddess Lakshmi portrayed as the epitome of wealth and beauty.

Ravi Varma’s works continue to inspire artists, historians, and collectors globally, cementing his position as an iconic figure in Indian art. His lithographs, including “Hamsa Damyanti,” remain highly collectible, reflecting the timeless charm and cultural heritage of India.