Antique Bhairava Miniature Painting on Kotah State Seal Paper – Rajasthan, India

Antique Bhairava Miniature Painting on Historic Kotah State Seal Paper

This extraordinary Indian miniature combines religious art, historical documentation, and traditional Rajasthan painting in a single object. The depiction shows Bhairava, the powerful tantric manifestation of Shiva, depicted with his faithful dog and various ritual attributes including a trishula, damaru, and ceremonial offering cup.

What makes this work exceptional is the support on which the painting is executed. The miniature was applied to authentic fiscal seal paper from the former princely state of Kotah (Kota State) in Rajasthan. On the reverse side, the original government seal, handwritten administrative text in Devanagari script, a serial number, and official markings are still present.

This form of repurposing historical documents occurs within the Rajasthan tradition, where old administrative papers were used as a base for religious and devotional paintings. This creates a fascinating combination of folk art, religious iconography, and colonial history.

Within Hinduism, Bhairava is revered as a protector, destroyer of negativity, and guardian of sacred places. Consequently, this miniature possesses not only artistic value but also a strong spiritual significance.

Why this object is special

• Hand-painted Bhairava miniature in Rajasthan style
• Painted on authentic Kotah State fiscal stamp paper
• Original blind stamp and administrative text present
• Interesting combination of art and historical documentation
• Religious depiction with strong tantric symbolism
• Collectible for lovers of Indian art and manuscripts

Specifications

Asking price: €245