Vintage Ravi Varma Chromolithograph - Urvashi

This is a vintage chromolithograph of Urvashi, printed at the Karla Lonavla branch of the Ravi Varma Press in the early 20th century. Urvashi, a celestial apsara from Hindu mythology, is known for her beauty and the legendary love story with King Pururavas.

In this depiction, adapted from Raja Ravi Varma’s original painting, Urvashi is shown in a moment of poignant emotion—parting from Pururavas. The composition captures the complexity of their story: love, longing, and inevitable separation. Ravi Varma’s interpretation humanises the mythical figure, presenting her not just as a divine beauty but as a woman caught in a deeply emotional moment.

 The chromolithograph remains housed in its original vintage wooden frame, which is an integral part of its historical value.

We have a deep appreciation for vintage chromolithographs. Here are the steps we take to preserve a piece of history, extend its lifespan, and maintain its authentic charm:

1. Frame Evaluation: The vintage frame can often become loose or worn due to the passage of time. We meticulously test each frame for stability, and if the damage is extensive, we opt to replace the frame.

2. Glass Replacement: Recognizing the vulnerability of vintage prints during shipping, we replace the original glass with acrylic. This change ensures that the artwork remains protected and undamaged.

3. Backboard Replacement: Many vintage prints come with a metal backing, which can corrode over time due to exposure to air and moisture. To prevent potential damage to both the print and the wall, we often replace the corroded metal backing with a new, high-density fiberboard backing.

Our goal is to preserve the original charm of these oleographs while presenting them to you in a renewed and revitalized form. Each step is carefully executed to honor the historical significance of these prints, ensuring they continue to captivate for years to come.