pats (Madhubani Painting)

These paintings were executed as part of Sanskara rites and Vrata observances which are still obligatory for women in some households of North Bihar. Jayakar (69:39) states that the ancient purpose of these drawings must have been propitiatory, that is, as symbols to induce fertility, to awaken energy (shakti), to propitiate the earth, and to solicit protection from malignant forces, disease, and sorcery. Today, these paints are also important for the visible education they provide of the great epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata) and for their rich religious vocabulary.

A double black ink outline of approximately 1 cm. Within which diagonal lines are drawn is used for the basic drawing of all figures and forms in this style of painting.

This subject is among the most popular in Midnapur District. Entitled 'Manasa Mangal', 'Blessings of Manasa.' Manasa is Hindu goddess associated with the major Hindu god, Shiva. The goddess is the mistress of Shiva's attendants, the snakes. The story of Manasa is told in popular Puranic stories dating back, in written form, to at least the 15th century.

Handmade paper. Uneven pink and blue border with wavey white line between. Smaller scallop edge border filled with black diagonal lines. Central image of woman, face in profile, with pierced nose, wearing dark blue and white dotted dress with pink and white dotted lining. Hands brought together at chest. Yellow undulating snake-like form with red and black outline and all over red dotted pattern with black lines between, encloses her. Background is all over floral pattern of pink and orange. Large red and yellow striped flower at bottom right corner.