While Kashyapa is a common ancient name referring to many Hindu-Buddhist personalities, the one that is depicted in this Tanjore painting is the oldest of the saptarshis (the seven sages) as expounded in the Brhadaranyakopanishad. The erudite author of the Soma Pavamana hymns of Rgveda is engaged in the worship of the bright-eyed Kamadhenu.
Kamadhenu is a one-of-a-kind deity of the Hindu pantheon. Partly bovine, partly devi, She is replete with the maternal and compassionate qualities of both. In keeping with Her traditional iconography, a multitude of Hindu deities are etched onto Her solid gold body. A little calf helplessly reaches up to Her generous teats.
From the little temple that houses the seated Sage Kashyapa to the skin of Kamadhenu and the calf, these sections of this Thanjavur painting have been executed in gold-layered gessowork. The rest of the colours on the minimalistic palette include scarlet and charcoal and hints of green that add life to the composition.
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