Artwork preview

Narrative Frieze: Life of a Hermit in Forest Retreat Architrave from a Jain Temple

Cleveland Museum of Art

Long, rectangular carved wooden panel, horizontally oriented. Weathered and worn surface with visible signs of aging and deterioration. Reddish-brown color with darker brown and black areas. Figures and animals carved in relief along length of panel. Several human figures in various poses, including sitting cross-legged, kneeling, and standing. Some figures have distinct facial features, hands in prayer or playing musical instruments. Animals include elephants, bulls, and birds. Figures depicted in naturalistic settings with foliage and architectural elements. Panel has architrave shape with rounded top and flat bottom. Edges rough and uneven, suggesting original use as part of larger structure, likely a Jain temple. Carvings densely packed, conveying narrative scenes from life of a hermit. Some areas of carving more worn than others, indicating handling and exposure. Background plain grey with shadows underneath, suggesting museum or gallery setting.

Artwork Details

Dimensions
1263 × 201 px
Museum Record
View original
Palette