The Goddess of Knowledge

Artifact Details

Estimated Period: Early to Mid-20th Century (circa 1920s–1950s)
Publisher: Ravi Varma Press, Karla (Lonavla), India
Medium: Chromolithograph (Oleograph) on Paper

This oleograph originates from the renowned Ravi Varma Press, established in 1894 to reproduce devotional imagery through chromolithographic printing.

Raja Ravi Varma (1848 – 1906) is widely recognised for synthesising European academic realism with Indian mythological subjects. Through the press, such images became widely accessible, shaping the visual language of domestic Hindu devotion throughout the 20th century.

The print depicts Goddess Saraswati, seated with the veena, accompanied by her peacock (vahana). The chromolithographic technique was designed to approximate the tonal depth and surface richness of oil painting.

The visible press mark confirms its origin within the Ravi Varma printing tradition.

Condition (At Time of Acquisition)

Age-related toning to paper.
Minor edge wear consistent with period handling.
Colour retention strong for its age.

Curatorial Note

This piece has been placed in private custodianship. It remains within the Marabu Archive as a reference example of early devotional print culture and the democratisation of sacred imagery in modern India.