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Bilaval Ragini

Indian

Artwork Details

Bilaval Ragini
circa 1800
Indian
ink, watercolor, and gold on paper
7 1/8 x 4 3/4 in. (18.1 x 12.07 cm);19 5/16 in x 14 5/16 in (49.05 cm x 36.35 cm);12 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in (31.75 cm x 21.59 cm);7 1/8 in x 4 3/4 in (18.1 cm x 12.07 cm)
Gift of Professor Walter M. and Nesta R. Spink for the James Marshall Plumer Memorial Collection
1980/2.244

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Description

Bilaval ragini, the personification of a musical mode that evokes the mood of a woman longing for her lover, is shown adorning herself with jewelry while she studies the effect in a mirror held by her handmaiden. A second attendant plays music on the veranda. The setting is a charming marble pavilion, with projecting porches topped by cupolas and a small rooftop chamber.
The name Bilaval (alternately spelled Vilaval) derives from the south Indian Valava tribe; presumably the music that inspired this poetry and image originated there.
Exhibited in "Divine Encounters, Earthly Pleasures: Twenty Centuries of Indian Art," 12/12/03-2/22/04.

Subject Matter:

Bilaval ragini, the personification of a musical mode that evokes the mood of a woman longing for her lover, is part of the Ragamala tradition of paintings, which are miniature paintings based on musical modes. 

Physical Description:

This miniature painting is placed on a red background with text written above it. In the center, a woman is adorning herself while looking at a mirror that is held by a female attendant. They are seated inside a marble pavilion, with projecting porches topped by cupolas and a small rooftop chamber. Another female attendent plays a string instrument to the side in the foreground.

Usage Rights:

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