Vintage Hanuman Rama Lakshmana Chromolithograph | Ravi Varma Press Malavli

This early 20th-century chromolithograph from the Ravi Varma Press depicts Hanuman, also known as Maruti, carrying Lord Rama and Lakshmana on his shoulders. The devotional image captures a familiar episode from the Ramayana, with Hanuman represented in his characteristic role as the devoted companion and bearer of Rama and Lakshmana.

The print was produced at the Malavli Press near Lonavala, one of the later branches associated with the Ravi Varma Press after the establishment of the original press in Bombay. Chromolithography allowed devotional imagery to be reproduced in vivid colour, making prints such as this an important part of the visual culture of early 20th-century India.

The original vintage wooden frame has been retained, preserving the period character of the piece. As with many vintage chromolithographs, however, some of the original framing components required attention to ensure the print could be safely preserved and displayed.

At The Blue Trunk, we take a conservation-led approach to these vintage prints. The frame is evaluated for stability and retained whenever possible. Where original glass is vulnerable, it is replaced with acrylic to provide safer protection, particularly during handling and shipping. Corroded metal backboards are also replaced with high-density fibreboard where necessary, helping protect both the print and the surrounding wall from further deterioration.

The result is a carefully preserved vintage chromolithograph that retains its original print and period frame while incorporating discreet conservation measures for its continued display and use.

Details

Subject: Hanuman carrying Rama and Lakshmana
Deity / Figure: Hanuman (Maruti), Rama and Lakshmana
Source: Ramayana
Press: Ravi Varma Press, Malavli
Location: Malavli, near Lonavala, Maharashtra
Period: Early 20th Century
Technique: Chromolithograph
Dimensions: L10.5 × H8 in
Frame: Original vintage wooden frame
Conservation: Original frame retained; glass replaced with acrylic; backing replaced with HDF where required
Condition: Vintage condition with conservation measures undertaken to preserve the print and frame
Authenticity: Comes with an authenticity certificate from The Blue Trunk.