Vintage Vishnu on Garuda Chromolithograph | Ravi Varma Press | Lakshmi & Bhudevi

This vintage chromolithograph depicts Lord Vishnu seated regally upon Garuda, accompanied by his consorts Goddess Lakshmi and Bhudevi, representing prosperity and the earth. Rendered in the distinctive visual language associated with Raja Ravi Varma, the composition brings together classical Hindu iconography with the naturalistic modelling and detailed figure work that became characteristic of Ravi Varma's influence on Indian devotional art.

Printed at the Ravi Varma Press in Malavli–Lonavla, the work belongs to the important tradition of early Indian oleographic and chromolithographic printing through which sacred imagery was reproduced for a much wider audience. The development of this print culture transformed the way religious imagery circulated in India, bringing representations of Hindu deities into homes and devotional spaces across the country.

The composition presents Vishnu seated upon his divine mount Garuda, with Lakshmi and Bhudevi alongside him. The carefully rendered figures, rich colour palette and detailed treatment of clothing and ornament reflect the academic-realist visual language that made Ravi Varma's imagery so influential in Indian popular and devotional art.

The print is housed in its original vintage wooden frame, retaining its period character and presentation. Natural toning, surface variation and signs of age contribute to the visual character of this historic print, while the frame has been preserved as an important part of the piece.

Measuring 15 × 11 inches, this vintage Ravi Varma Press chromolithograph is a distinctive example of India's early mass-produced devotional art and the country's evolving print culture. It will appeal to collectors of Raja Ravi Varma prints, Indian chromolithographs, Hindu devotional art and vintage Indian cultural objects.

Preservation & Restoration

We take particular care in preserving vintage Indian prints while retaining their original character and period presentation.

Frame Evaluation: The original vintage wooden frame has been carefully evaluated and retained wherever structurally possible.

Protective Acrylic: The original glass has been replaced with high-quality protective acrylic to reduce weight and the risk of breakage while protecting the delicate print.

Backboard Conservation: Where required, deteriorated original backing is replaced with archival-quality high-density fibreboard to help protect the artwork from corrosion and moisture-related damage.

Our approach is deliberately conservative. The intention is to preserve the print's age, character and historical context rather than make it appear new.

Details

• Subject: Lord Vishnu seated on Garuda with Lakshmi and Bhudevi
• Artist / Visual Tradition: Raja Ravi Varma
• Publisher: Ravi Varma Press, Malavli–Lonavla
• Medium: Vintage chromolithograph
• Tradition: Indian devotional and popular print art
• Origin: Tamil Nadu
• Period: Vintage
• Frame: Original vintage wooden frame
• Glazing: Protective acrylic
• Dimensions: H15 × L11 in
• Condition: Vintage with natural toning, patina and age-related characteristics
• Authenticity: Comes with an authenticity certificate from The Blue Trunk.