Rama Speaks to the Hermit Bharadvaja Outside his Dwelling, from a Ramayana manuscript, India, Punjab Hills, Bahu or Kulu, c. 1700-10, Opaque watercolour on paper, AKM138

Rama Speaks to the Hermit Bharadvaja Outside his Dwelling, from a Ramayana manuscript, India, Punjab Hills, Bahu or Kulu, c. 1700-10, Opaque watercolour on paper, AKM138

This version of the Sanskrit epic Ramayana uses images instead of words to tell how Rama, a manifestation of the Hindu god Vishnu, struggled to defeat the demon king Ravana. On this page, Rama is exiled to the forest, but the austere sage at left promises that he will soon return home. Although illustrations of this scene in texts of the Ramayana show the prince dressed in leaves, this version uses images, adorning Rama with a robe, sword, and crown to make clear his royal nature.

Aga Khan Museum

c. 1700-10

Aga Khan Museum

Aga Khan Museum

Dimensions: 22.2x32 cm

Materials: Opaque watercolour on paper

AKM138

India, Punjab Hills, Bahu or Kulu