Rama Battles the Demon Army

Rama Battles the Demon Army

19th Century

India, Kishangarh

Opaque watercolor and ink on paper

Image: 16 1/8 x 11 1/8 in. (41 x 28.3 cm)

2013.011.002

Here, Rama is shown slaughtering Khara’s demon army and then resting after battle with Lakshmana and Sita, who massages his feet. Depictions of Rama on both sides of this manuscript page emphasize his nobility, grace, and might, illus-trating the hero as an archetypal warrior and nobleman.
On this side, Rama’s strength is evident as he massacres an entire army, without incurring so much as a scratch. Below, he wears the princely attire of a Rajput nobleman, rather than the garb of a forest-dwelling ascetic, emphasizing his nobility. On the other side, Rama is depicted bow in hand, a proficient and elegant warrior. He smiles fearlessly as a demon army approaches, demonstrating the kingly virtue of bravery.

Museum purchase

MCCM Permanent Collection Reinstallation, April 1 - October 27, 2014

© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University. Photo by Bruce M. White, 2015.

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