AN UNUSUAL PAINTING OF A DEITY, POSSIBLY SHIVAINDIA, RAJASTHAN, 19TH CENTURY65⁄8 x 45⁄8 in. (16.8 x 11.7 cm.) (folio)‌5 x 31⁄8 in. (12.7 x 7.9 cm.) (image)Details65⁄8 x 45⁄8 in. (16.8 x 11.7 cm.) (folio)‌5 x 31⁄8 in. (12.7 x 7.9 cm.) (image)ProvenanceThe John C. and Susan L. Huntington Collection, Columbus, Ohio, 1980s.The present painting appears to illustrate a highly unusual depiction of the god Shiva. His snake, Vasuki, weaves between his two front arms, rather than coiling around Shiva’s neck. He carries none of his usual attributes, but instead a branch. The seated figure in his matted hair, appearing to be crowned or even naga-hooded figure seated in dhyanasana, is also most unusual deviation from what is normally either a sun and moon, or the goddess Ganga. He is seated in the lalitsana posture, as he often is portrayed in South Indian bronzes; however with lotus pads as his base and foot rest, the image is also reminiscent of the Pala period tradition. ---