Paper and Cloth Kalighat Painting of Lord Vishnu Vishvarupa

This Kalighat painting on cloth and paper illustrates a striking and devotional scene of Lord Vishnu in his Vishvarupa (cosmic form), a powerful visual expression of divine omnipresence. Vishnu stands centrally on a blooming lotus, his calm yet authoritative posture anchoring the composition. His body unfolds into multiple faces and arms, radiating outward in perfect symmetry, symbolizing his infinite manifestations and universal form. Above his crowned heads rises a fan-like formation of serpent hoods, evoking Sheshnag and reinforcing Vishnus role as the cosmic preserver. The surrounding figuresroyal devotees and divine attendantsare shown with folded hands and reverential gazes, their bodies angled inward to direct attention toward the central deity. Two kneeling figures in the foreground emphasize humility and devotion, creating a visual hierarchy that elevates Vishnus presence. Large, stylized trees frame the scene on both sides, their dense green foliage balancing the composition and adding a sense of sacred space, as if the revelation occurs within a divine grove. Executed in the classic Kalighat style, the painting features bold black outlines, flat planes of vibrant color, and expressive almond-shaped eyes. The palette of warm reds, oranges, greens, and soft blues enhances both the ceremonial richness and visual clarity. Decorative borders enclose the scene, while the patterned ground beneath the figures adds rhythm without distracting from the narrative. Painted on cloth and paper, this work reflects the Kalighat artists ability to translate complex theological ideas into accessible, visually compelling imagery rooted in folk tradition and devotional storytelling.

Key visual features: