Sugriva challenges Bali, painting from Ramayana

Sugriva challenges Bali, painting from a manuscript of the Kishkindhakanda of the Ramayana copied by Mahatma Hirananda, Udaipur.

Beautiful Indian work of art by an unknown artist. In this exquisite painting, Sugriva, Rama’s friend is seen challenging his brother Bali to fight for the possession of the monkey-throne of Kishkindha. King Bali and his queen are resplendent in their colorful dresses and elaborate crowns while, in contrast, Sugriva is naked. This is an excellent example of miniature painting in seventeenth century India.