Shiva and Parvati Playing Chaupar, is an great example of old Basohli painting from the late 1600s. This painting shows Shiva and Parvati sitting on a tiger skin and playing a game of chaupar. Chaupar game is an Indian board game that was very popular in the ancient times. The painting shows, Shiva and Parvati are not only gods, but also a couple who like to spend time together, as humans. Main features of the painting are Ink, opaque watercolor, silver, and gold on paper. The author of the painting is acclaimed to be Devidasa of Nurpur.
The way the artwork is a typical Basohli style. The background is a yellow which stands out. Shivas body in white, has a snake around his neck and ashes on his body. He also has a hair tied with a topknot, while Parvati's clothes are deep red in color, alomgwith a lot of jewellery. She looks very elegant. The red border around the painting makes it look more special. The faces of Shiva and Parvati are very stylized, with eyes and sharp profiles. This is what makes Basohli paintings so unique.
There are some trees and rocks around Shiva and Parvati, tho not very detailed, but the artist did try to make the painting look very realistic. The artist uses colors and simple shapes to create an atmosphere. This atmosphere is both spiritual and intimate.
Shiva and Parvati seem to be engaged in a playful game, where Shiva teases Parvati as she begs him to return her necklace, which he won in a game. The Rasamanjari Series talks about the delight, love and experience of it all, and its need in life. Here, it depicts a playful love that comes with the nature of the relationship two people have when they know each other for years and years, yet the love and commitment to each other have not faded away. It's beautiful and evokes a sense of happiness that only comes with that one person.
