Description
This is a symmetrical painting of two goddesses, each standing on a lotus (symbolizing beauty and purity). Both are considered in Bengali folklore to be sisters and the daughters of the goddess Durga. Lakshmi, goddess of fortune, prosperity, and beauty, and wife of Vishnu, is holding an unfinished flower. Sarasvati, goddess of knowledge, learning, and patroness of the fine arts, is holding a stringed instrument, which represents refined training and education. Sarasvati is white skinned, signifying purity.
Provenance
William E. Ward [1922-2004], Solon, OH, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art (?-2003); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (2003-)
Accession Number
2003.150.b
Medium
Gum tempera, graphite, ink, and tin on paper
Dimensions
Secondary Support: 40.5 x 30 cm (15 15/16 x 11 13/16 in.); Painting only: 45.3 x 28.4 cm (17 13/16 x 11 3/16 in.)
Classification
Painting
Credit Line
Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward