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The Cleveland Museum of Art
Shurpanakha demands vengeance, from the "Shangri" Ramayana
Description
In a dramatic climax, the artists introduce the demon king, Ravana (the Howler), archvillain of the Ramayana. He has 10 crowned heads and 20 arms. He grasps a different deadly weapon in each hand; they reveal his supreme powers. The demon Shurpanakha’s nose and ears are healing, but her desire for revenge is stronger than ever. She gestures emphatically at her brother Ravana, urging him to find a way to destroy Rama, perhaps by kidnapping Rama’s wife. More gold has been lavished on this painting than any other known from the “Shangri” Ramayana, suggesting that it is meant to stand out as a scene of primary importance.
Provenance
Unknown; (Walter LeRoy Randel Jr. [b. 1932], New York, NY, sold to Ralph Benkaim); Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection, Los Angeles, CA; The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
Dimensions
18.4 × 28.9 cm
Movement / Period
Accession No
2018.107
Official Citations
Curatorial Affinity Stream
Continuing the Universe of Unknown Artist
Indian and Southeast Asian Art • Northern India, Pahari kingdoms • Harmonious Works & Contemporaries
Continuous Discovery