Shiva and His Family

The drawing depicts the Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction; Parvati, his wife; Ganesh, his elephant-headed son; Kartikeya, his son; and Nandi the bull, his vehicle (vahana). In his hands, Shiva holds Ganesh and Kartrikeya, who is shown here with six heads. Below him, Parvati bends forward to pour water for Nandi. The bull archs his neck towards her, creating a bold, round silhouette that frames the Shiva and his family. Gray ink washes are used to block out areas of color on Nandi's head and neck and on Shiva's animal skin garments. The outlines of a trident and drum, attributes of Shiva, are visible through white paint corrections, above the head of the standing god. Pahari Style, Kangra School.