Devagandhari Ragini (painting, recto), from a Ragamala (Garland of Melodies) Series

Devagandhari Ragini is commonly represented by an ascetic in a retreat. In this painting, the ascetic, with long dreadlocks, sits outside of a white structure. An attendant stands behind him, holding up a peacock feather fan. Two female musicians approach the ascetic; one carries a tambura, a type of string instrument, and the other carries a mridagam, a type of drum. This painting is a pictorial metaphor for a raga, a musical phrase that is used as the basis for improvisation. Rajput, Rajasthani, Jaipur School.