108 Deity

The 108 paintings presented in this book are a catalogue of the main Hindu deities most celebrated in South India. They are beautifully depicted and iconographically accurate, some of which show localised features referring to specific moments in the legends celebrated in the region. Tamil Nadu had an important tradition of religious painting, much of it applied to the plastered interiors of temple walls and ceilings and to temple vestments. None of these have survived well in the monsoon climate of southern India. This album, painted in Madurai in 1837 and shipped shortly afterwards to the United States, has escaped these depredations. It is in magnificent condition and is a testament to the artistry and creativity of the Madurai heir painters of the early 19th century.