Historic 1806 Shiva and Vishnu Harihara Antique Print - Hindu Deity Engraving
€ 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1806
Sheet size
28.5 × 21.5 cm (11.2 × 8.5 in)
Condition
Fair
Reference
BG-13429-31
Condition
Fair to good condition for its age, with minor foxing and light browning on edges. Slight creasing at corners and minimal wear on margins, but the central image remains clear and intact. No tears or significant damage observed.
About this sheet
Historic 1806 Shiva and Vishnu Harihara Antique Print - Hindu Deity Engraving This exquisite antique print, titled "Chiven et Vichenou, sous le nom de Singara narainen," illustrates the Hindu deity Harihara, a syncretic form of Shiva and Vishnu, also known as Singara Narainen. The deity is depicted seated in a meditative pose on a pedestal, adorned with an elaborate headdress and intricate jewelry. The figure holds symbolic items, including a small antelope (an attribute of Shiva) and a conch (associated with Vishnu), symbolizing the unity of destruction and preservation in Hindu theology. The detailed line work and textured patterns highlight the artist’s dedication to capturing the divine essence of this unique deity.
The copperplate engraving was crafted by Jean-Baptiste Marie Poisson after an illustration by Pierre Sonnerat, a noted French naturalist and explorer. It was published in Sonnerat’s influential travelogue, Voyage aux Indes Orientales et à la Chine (Dentu, Paris, 1806), which documented his extensive travels and observations of Eastern cultures. Copperplate engraving, the technique employed, was ideal for rendering fine details, as seen in the deity’s ornate attire and the delicate shading throughout the composition.
This print is a fascinating artifact of early 19th-century European engagement with Indian spirituality, offering insight into how Hindu deities were interpreted and depicted in the West. The aged paper and subtle patina enhance its historical charm, making it a valuable piece for collectors of religious art, ethnographic studies, or early 19th-century engravings. Its connection to Sonnerat’s seminal work adds to its cultural and historical significance.
Condition Report: Fair to Good condition for its age, with minor foxing and light browning on edges. Slight creasing at corners and minimal wear on margins, but the central image remains clear and intact. No tears or significant damage observed.
Framing Tips: Use a double mat in a neutral shade to emphasize the print's details. Choose a dark wooden frame to match its antique style. Opt for UV-protective glass to prevent fading, and avoid placing in direct sunlight.
