The artwork entitled “Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth” was created by the esteemed artist Raja Ravi Varma in 1906. This mythological painting belongs to the era of Academicism, an art movement that emphasized formal techniques and the imitation of the classical arts. The representation of Lakshmi, a revered deity in Hindu tradition known for her association with prosperity and good fortune, is a quintessential example of Raja Ravi Varma’s ability to amalgamate Indian themes with European academic art techniques.
In the artwork, the goddess Lakshmi is depicted standing gracefully upon a blossoming lotus, which floats upon tranquil waters. She is garbed in a traditional sari of vivid pink and golden hues, signifying opulence and splendor. Her four arms are poised elegantly, each holding symbolic items: two lotuses, a representation of purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration, and the remaining hands bestow blessings of fortune and assurance of safety respectively. Adorned with an ornate crown and an array of jewelry, her divinity and royal status are highlighted.
The surrounding scene depicts an idyllic and serene landscape, featuring a forested backdrop, cascading waterfalls, and a gentle stream. Accompanying the goddess are creatures associated with her iconography: swans, traditionally symbolic of success and beauty, and an elephant in the background, often representing rain, fertility, and wealth in Hindu iconography.
The serene facial expression of the goddess exudes calmness and a sense of benevolence. Raja Ravi Varma’s artistic mastery is evident in the lifelike portrayal of Lakshmi, rendered with delicate brushwork and a keen sense of realism imbued with spiritual significance. The artwork conveys a sense of the divine presence of Lakshmi and encapsulates the synthesis of Indian symbolism with European realism, making it a unique and culturally significant piece of art from the turn of the 20th century.
