Anonimo - Antico manoscritto induista - 1780

The analyzed manuscript is of Hindu nature. The presence of the sacred symbol "Oṃ" (ॐ) and, above all, the miniature of the deity (probably Kartikeya) riding a peacock (sacred vehicle or vahana typical of this deity) confirm its belonging to the Hindu devotional tradition.

Here is a summary of its main characteristics:

Typology and Format: It is an Indian illuminated manuscript in an accordion format (pothi), made on handmade paper, probably treated with natural protective pigments.

Content and Language: The text is written in Sanskrit using the Devanagari script. It contains hymns of praise or ritual prayers (stotra), as suggested by the sacred invocations visible.

Iconography: It is enriched with miniatures in the Pahari or Rajasthan style, characterized by the use of vivid colors and gold details that depict divine figures surrounded by blazing aureoles.

Era and Origin: The artefact dates approximately to the period from the late 18th to the mid-19th century (circa 1780–1850), originating from northern India.

The manuscript represents an excellent example of Indian devotional art, combining the importance of the sacred text with the aesthetic refinement of period miniature painting.