Maharana Sangram Singh II (r. 1710–34) Worshipping a Linga Under a Banyan Tree

Shrines alongside bodies of water were associated with serpent deities. A four-headed snake painted gold is wrapped around the linga (the phallic emblem marking the sacred presence of the god Shiva). Facing the linga is a marble image of Shiva’s mount, the bull Nandi. Flowers, packets of paan (areca nut and sweet aromatics wrapped in betel leaf), coconuts, and a flower garland are among the offerings. A brass ewer holds purified water, and a bell would punctuate moments of recitation. A blue-and-white porcelain cup holds the fragrant yellow paste to be applied to the linga and the forehead of the pious king.