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Sheetaladevi: The Smallpox Goddess, 1800s. Creator: Unknown
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Sheetaladevi: The Smallpox Goddess, 1800s. Creator: Unknown
Sheetaladevi: The Smallpox Goddess, 1800s. Sheetala, the smallpox goddess, is simultaneously benevolent and dangerous: she can both protect and infect, bless and curse devotees with smallpox and other diseases. Persons scarred by smallpox are believed to have been graced by her. She is appeased so that she does not infect her worshippers. Her name, Sheetala, " Cool One, " refers to her birth out of a cooled sacrificial fire. The rippled curtains above her are suggestive of theatrical tableau and Sheetalapala (The Drama of Sheetala) that was performed in Bengal. She sits astride her vehicle (vahana), the donkey, regarded as an inauspicious animal. Gift
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Media ID 19639583
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
And Tin Paint Black Ink Calcutta Kalighat Painting With Graphite Underdrawing On Paper
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This print showcases the enigmatic Sheetala Devi, also known as the Smallpox Goddess, dating back to the 1800s. The creator of this artwork remains unknown, adding an air of mystery to its allure. Sheetala Devi is a complex deity who embodies both benevolence and danger. She possesses the power to protect and infect, bless and curse her devotees with smallpox and other illnesses. Believers hold that those scarred by smallpox have been blessed by her divine touch. To prevent her from infecting her worshippers, she must be appeased through rituals and offerings. Her name "Sheetala" translates to "Cool One" symbolizing her birth from a cooled sacrificial fire. The rippled curtains in the background add a theatrical element reminiscent of the dramatic tableau associated with Sheetala Devi's story, particularly in Bengal where it was performed as "Sheetalapala". Interestingly, she is depicted seated atop a donkey - an animal traditionally considered inauspicious. This remarkable piece combines various artistic techniques such as tin paint, black ink, watercolor, and graphite underdrawing on paper. It represents Kalighat painting style originating from Calcutta (now Kolkata), India. Preserved within The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection thanks to Heritage Art/Heritage Images' generous gift during the 19th century; this photograph print allows us to appreciate both the beauty and complexity surrounding this ancient goddess worshiped for
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