Bengal Lithograph, Calcutta
Region / Date
Kolkata (Calcutta), West Bengal, India
ca. 1880–1885
Tantric Mahavidya print tradition
Key Features
This elegant lithograph portrays Bhuvaneshwari, one of the Ten Mahavidyas and the sovereign ruler of the bhuvanas (worlds). She is the embodiment of cosmic space (ākāśa)-the infinite matrix in which all existence unfolds.
Seated in regal composure upon a lotus-cushioned throne, Bhuvaneshwari is depicted in a posture of royal ease, with one leg gently extended. This stance signifies her supreme authority over the universe-effortless, all-encompassing, and serene.
Her four-armed form carries profound symbolism:
- The pāśa (noose) represents attraction-the power that draws creation into manifestation
- The aṅkuśa (goad) signifies control-the ability to guide and restrain the mind
- Her raised hands offer abhaya (protection) and varada (boons), assuring devotees of safety and grace
Her presence is deeply connected to mantra and sound, especially her bija mantra, through which she is invoked in Tantric practice. She is not merely a deity but the living field of consciousness itself, the space in which all thoughts, forms, and energies arise.
Adorned in a rich crimson sari with gold detailing and a green floral bodice, she radiates both royal splendor and maternal warmth. Her luminous halo emphasizes her status as the source of all light and awareness.
Unlike more fierce Mahavidya forms such as Kali or Tara, Bhuvaneshwari embodies expansiveness, शांतता (peace), and nurturing sovereignty. She is the space that contains all dualities-creation and destruction, movement and stillness.
The Bengal lithographic style enhances her presence through subtle hand-coloring, symmetrical composition, and refined ornamental detailing. The throne, adorned with intricate patterns, reflects 19th-century Bengali aesthetics infused with devotional symbolism.
Bhuvaneshwari is revered as the cosmic mother, the one who holds all worlds within her being-making this artwork both visually graceful and philosophically profound.
Museum-Grade Poster Details
Size: 18 × 24 inches
Paper: 350 GSM archival matte paper
Print Quality: High-resolution reproduction preserving original lithographic textures and hand-coloring
Finish: Non-glare museum matte finish
Ideal For: Meditation spaces, Tantric practitioners, sacred interiors, and collectors of Mahavidya art
Why You’ll Love It
A serene yet powerful representation of the Divine Feminine as infinite space and universal consciousness.
Order Now
Invite the शांत and expansive presence of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari, the ruler of all realms, into your space.
Available in 18 × 24 inches, with framed and unframed options, exclusively at The Soma Store.
