The Oleograph of Khandoba, a regional Hindu deity, often considered a form of Lord Shiva, with his wife Mhalsa, and is likely an oleograph, a type of lithograph printed with oil-based inks. In the painting, Khandoba and Mhalsa are depicted on horseback, engaged in battle with demons. A dog is also shown biting one of the demons. This representation is consistent with popular depictions of Khandoba, where he is often shown as a warrior on horseback, accompanied by his wife or wives and a dog, fighting demons.
Key elements in the painting include:
Khandoba:
He is typically depicted as a warrior, often riding a white horse, and carrying weapons like a sword or trident. In this image, he is shown with a sword, ready to strike a demon.
Mhalsa:
Khandoba's wife, often seated with him on the horse, is sometimes shown participating in the battle, as seen here where she is piercing a demon with a spear.
Demons:
The painting includes demons, representing the adversaries of Khandoba and Mhalsa, emphasizing the deity's role as a protector against evil forces.
Dog:
Dogs are commonly associated with Khandoba and are often included in his depictions, symbolizing loyalty and protection.
Setting and Style:
The style of the painting, particularly the rendering of figures and the landscape, aligns with the characteristics of oleographs popular in the early 20th century, with a vibrant color palette and detailed imagery. The text at the bottom of the image identifies it as an Amar Prem Lithos print, registered with the number 322, and mentions "Anant Shivaji Desai, Motibazar, Mumbai" and "Ravi Varma Press, Karla, Lonavla," indicating the publisher and printing location, which is consistent with the production of oleographs during that era. Ravi Varma Press was known for producing oleographs of Hindu deities.
Khandoba is a significant deity for several communities in Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka, worshipped as a protector and granter of wishes. His iconography frequently includes his martial aspects and his association with both his wives, Mhalsa and Banai, representing different communities. The turmeric powder, often associated with Khandoba worship, is not visually prominent in this painting, but it is a significant element in his rituals, often thrown in the air by devotees, giving temples a yellow hue.
The painting's style and subject matter make it a notable example of religious art from the period, reflecting both artistic conventions and religious beliefs associated with Khandoba.
This is publised by Ravi Varma Press Karla Lonavalla Circa 1920-25
