This Kalamkari painting on cotton pays respect to Nataraja. The idea behind this painting is to encourage the human race to pursue knowledge rather than engage in unintellectual activities. The destroyers, or fundamental forces of creation, are the log-matted locks that flow freely. Lord Shiva is regarded as the master of life and death, and the serpent coiled around his neck and his lower right arm (in Varada Mudra) represents regeneration.

The Gaja hasta mudra, or posture, is shown on the lower left hand. The second footsteps firmly on the dwarf of ignorance, allowing wisdom to emerge. He stands atop the Apasmara, whom he has killed; he is known as Natesa. The painting further uses the smart technique of creating a dark background to make the light-colored figure of the deity prominent.