Kali/ Tara 1885 - 1890

This print, made by the Calcutta Art Studio, presents a striking visual contrast through its bifurcated composition, a common style in 19th-century Indian art, to depict two Hindu goddesses, Kali and Tara. The stark division of the pictorial space immediately draws the eye, inviting a comparison of the two deities. The artists employ a vivid palette, setting Kali against a dark blue backdrop and Tara against a fiery red, enhancing their distinct iconographies. The goddesses are depicted with dynamic energy, each standing on a reclining figure, symbolizing the subjugation of ego and ignorance. Notice the sharp lines and precise detailing in the goddesses' adornments, which contrast with the softer rendering of the background elements. This juxtaposition highlights not only their individual attributes but also the dualistic nature of divine power, where creation and destruction, fear and protection, coexist. The print functions semiotically, using recognizable symbols and forms to communicate complex theological ideas to a broad audience, reflecting the studio's role in popularizing religious imagery.