Annapurna and Shiva
Unknown Artist
c. 1890
Medium
Gum tempera, graphite, ink, and tin on paper
Dimensions
painting only: 45.5 × 27.6 cm · secondary support: 50.3 × 30.7 cm
Classification
Painting
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward
Accession Number
2003.162
About this artwork
Goddess Annapurna (She of Plenteous Food) is depicted being supplicated by Shiva, seen as an ascetic who seeks alms from her. Seated on a throne she places food (possibly rice) in Shiva’s bowl with a spoon held in her right hand. Even Shiva is dependent on her for nourishment and food. A mendicant’s bag is hung on Shiva’s right shoulder.