The artwork titled “Shakuntala,” created by the distinguished artist Raja Ravi Varma in 1898, is executed in oil and belongs to the Academicism art movement. This mythological painting currently resides in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a serene forest scene featuring a group of women, one of whom is the central figure, Shakuntala. She is depicted in a graceful posture, slightly lifting her leg and touching her foot, suggesting a fleeting, delicate moment frozen in time. The background is lush and vibrant, capturing the tranquil ambiance of nature with subtle hues of green and blue. The presence of the other figures, who appear engaged in conversation and actions, adds a dynamic element to the composition. The intricate details of their attire, the interplay of light and shadow, and the overall pastoral setting epitomize the classical and refined style characteristic of Raja Ravi Varma’s work.
