Domains of Wonder

Exhibition: Torf Gallery
Dates: September 20, 2006-November 26, 2006

Experience for yourself the cosmic and intimate nature of outstanding Indian painting when "Domains of Wonder" arrives at the MFA for only two months this fall. Explore the history of Indian Painting, from its beginnings in the fourteenth century through the colonial period, and enjoy the lectures, courses, and lively hands-on events that bring the rich cultural heritage of India to the Museum.

From manuscript illustrations and large paintings on cloth used by the Jaina religious community, through the boldy painted miniatures from the courts of maharajahs celebrating exploits of Hindu gods - such as flute-wielding, milkmaid-seducing Krishna - the exhibition also includes the refined painting style developed by Muslim rulers, particualrly at the Mughal court. The exhibition culminates in paintings from the colonial period, when works blended miniature techniques with European perspective to produce hyper-real portraits for both English and Indian patrons.

The 126 works in "Domains of Wonder" were selected by India's foremost art historian, B. N. Goswamy, and Caron Smith, deputy director of the Rubin Museum, from a collection amassed by Edwin Binney 3rd, now belonging to the San Diego Museum of Art. Enjoy these magnificent examples of five centuries of Indian painting and our related celebrations of South Asian culture.