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Indian Ascetics and Devotion Rituals – Feeding Birds and Acts of Penitence, 1734

About the Item

Title: Indian Ascetics and Devotion Rituals – Feeding Birds and Acts of Penitence, c.1734 Description: This fascinating 18th-century copperplate engraving offers a rare European portrayal of Indian religious asceticism and devotional acts, focused specifically on members of the Jogis and Brahmin communities. Published circa 1734 as part of the encyclopedic *The Ceremonies and Religious Customs of Various Nations of the Known World*, this print is one of many attempts by Enlightenment-era Europeans to document global spiritual practices, especially those deemed exotic or extreme. The sheet is divided into four individual scenes, each capturing a unique ritual act or form of self-denial. The top two panels are devoted to the Jogis, a sect of ascetics in India associated with yogic disciplines and renunciation. The upper left scene shows a group of seated Jogis engaged in prayer, meditation, and discussion, surrounded by ceremonial tools such as water pots, rudraksha beads, and offerings. Their leader, in a central meditative pose, exudes calm authority while disciples perform acts of service around him. The upper right panel shifts focus to two other Jogis performing acts of self-mortification. One cuts into his own arm with a blade, and another prepares for or contemplates a similar ritual. These scenes reflect the European fascination with bodily penance and perceived exoticism, often misunderstood or sensationalized in Western accounts but rooted in long-standing ascetic traditions. The lower left panel features a seated Jogi feeding a peacock, described as doing so "par devotion" (out of devotion). The setting includes detailed architecture and patterned flooring, suggesting the importance of ritual and space in religious observance. The peacock, sacred in Hinduism, is associated with various deities, particularly Kartikeya and Saraswati. In the lower right panel, two Brahmins are shown feeding birds by hand, also as an act of spiritual offering. They sit in a calm, natural setting, surrounded by small vessels and ritual tools, illustrating their daily devotional routine. Such scenes underscore the deeply rooted Indian belief in ahimsa (non-violence) and the sanctity of life. Together, these four panels form a compelling visual ethnography. They reflect the intense religious discipline, personal sacrifice, and devotion practiced in different branches of Hindu spirituality, as seen through the Enlightenment-era European gaze. Condition report: This print is in good condition with strong plate impressions and intact margins. There is minor age-related toning and foxing, particularly in the lower margin and around the edges. The paper is untrimmed with a visible plate mark and no significant tears or repairs. Framing suggestions: To present this vertical print effectively, consider a classic rectangular frame with a soft cream or light tan archival mat that complements the warm tone of the aged paper. A slim black or dark wood frame will enhance the fine detailing of the engravings. UV-protective glazing is recommended to preserve the quality of the paper and ink over time. A float mount can also be considered if you want to show the full deckled edge and plate border.

Dimensions:

Height: 16.54 in (42 cm)Width: 10.24 in (26 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)

Materials and Techniques:

Paper,Engraved

Period:

1730-1739

Date of Manufacture:

1734

Condition:

Good condition with strong plate impressions and intact margins. There is minor age-related toning and foxing, particularly in the lower margin and around the edges. The paper is untrimmed with a visible plate mark and no significant errors.

Seller Location:

Langweer, NL

Materials

Paper

Category

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Category

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Indian Ascetics and Devotion Rituals – Feeding Birds and Acts of Penitence, 1734

About the Item

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