The artwork titled “Asoka, who by the white stucco of his fame made spotless the universe,” is a religious painting by the esteemed artist Abanindranath Tagore. As a visual embodiment of its title, the painting captures the essence of the Emperor Asoka’s transformative journey and his subsequent influence on the spread of Buddhism.
In the artwork, a solitary figure believed to be Emperor Asoka, is depicted sitting on a rocky outcrop, draped in fine garments and donning a traditional headgear. He appears contemplative, peering across a vast, hazy landscape that extends into an atmospheric blend of warm and cool tones. The misty backdrop suggests a spiritual or metaphysical haze, with a sense of immensity and transcendence. A pagoda-like structure pierces the fog at a distance, possibly symbolizing the reach and impact of Asoka’s spiritual convictions. This piece, steeped in religious and historical significance, conveys a serene yet profound narrative of Asoka’s commitment to peace and Buddhism.
