Signed Black and White Madhubani Ink Painting from India, "Incarnation of Lord Vishnu I"

Shruti Mishra works freehand, drawing delicate lines with fine detail in this Indian Madhubani painting. A border filled with star motifs surrounds a composition depicting birds, fish, and turtles alongside leafy vines and lotus flowers. According to the artist, "If we look around us everything is in fours. The four cardinal points, the four elements of earth, the four seasons, the four life stages. Even our society was divided into four castes. Hence, the power of Lord Vishnu is depicted through this painting."

Originating in Mithila, Madhubani paintings strive to show a perfect harmony in the natural world.