Calcutta Art Studio Chromolithograph
Region / Date
India (Kolkata, Bengal School context)
1880–1890
Key Features
This rare and deeply symbolic diptych presents two profound manifestations from the sacred tradition of the Mahavidyas—revealing the Divine Feminine as both supreme beauty and radical self-transformation.
On the left appears Tripura Sundari (locally referred to as Shodashi), seated upon a lotus emerging from Shiva—a visual echo of cosmic creation traditions. She represents perfect harmony, divine beauty, and the fullness of creation, embodying the highest state of balance where material and spiritual realities coexist. Below, the presence of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva reinforces her supremacy as the शक्ति underlying all cosmic functions. Shodashi is the still center of the universe—the point where all dualities dissolve into blissful unity.
In stark contrast, the right panel depicts Chinnamasta, one of the most enigmatic and intense forms of the Divine Feminine. She stands upon a copulating couple, symbolizing life-force and creation, yet simultaneously transcends it through her shocking act of self-decapitation. Streams of blood flow from her severed neck—nourishing herself and her attendants—representing self-sacrifice, control over desire, and the awakening of kundalini energy. Her imagery expresses a profound Tantric truth:
life, death, sacrifice, and nourishment are all one continuous cycle.
Together, the diptych forms a powerful philosophical contrast:
Shodashi is the perfection of divine order, while Chinnamasta is the transcendence of all order.
The composition moves from serene cosmic balance to explosive spiritual awakening—capturing the full spectrum of Tantric realization.
Rooted in Bengal’s rich devotional and esoteric traditions, this artwork reflects a worldview where even the most paradoxical forms of the Divine are revered as pathways to liberation.
Philosophically, it reveals:
ultimate truth lies beyond both beauty and shock—beyond creation and destruction.
Museum-Grade Poster Details
Size: 18 × 24 inches
Paper: 350 GSM archival matte paper
Print Quality: High-resolution reproduction preserving intricate chromolithographic detail
Finish: Non-glare museum matte finish
Ideal For: Advanced practitioners, collectors of Mahavidya art, and seekers of Tantric philosophy
Why You’ll Love It
A rare and powerful Mahavidya pairing that captures both cosmic perfection and radical transformation.
Order Now
Bring home Shodashi & Chinnamasta, a profound union of beauty and transcendence.
Available in 18 × 24 inches, with framed and unframed options, exclusively at The Soma Store.