Calm Watch of the Wild Cat
Mahaveer Swami
Mahaveer Swami, born in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India, in 1959, is a highly accomplished artist. He began his artistic journey with home training before pursuing a Diploma in Painting & Sculpture at the Rajasthan School of Art in Jaipur. Mahaveer Swami's artistic themes frequently encompass asceticism, the everyday experiences of Indian women, and Hindu mythology, all influenced by Mughal and Rajasthani miniature traditions. With a strong interest in botany, he has produced remarkable miniature paintings with botanical themes. He has also collaborated with several prominent botanical societies, including the American, Korean, and Indian Botanical Societies. His art has gained international recognition through exhibitions at prestigious galleries in various Indian cities and abroad. He honed his skills in traditional painting under the tutelage of his mentor, the late Shri Vedpal Sharma "Bannu." Swami's work has been extensively exhibited, with over 60 galleries in India, including major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, showcasing his art. Internationally, his reach extends to Paris, Brussels, Jerusalem, Washington DC, New York, Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Spain and Australia. Beyond exhibitions, Mahaveer Swami is dedicated to sharing his expertise. He has conducted workshops and training programs across India and globally, in locations such as Paris, Cairo, Jerusalem, Dubai, Bhutan, Algeria, Taiwan, Belgium, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Pittsburgh and Washington, DC. His artistic prowess has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Master Craftsman Award (National Award). His art is held in the collections of over 17 museums and galleries worldwide, including institutions in Jerusalem, Berlin, Pittsburgh, New York, Paris, Belgium and Algeria. Mahaveer Swami's contributions to the art world are also documented in various books, magazines, and online blogs. His artwork is part of the permanent collections at esteemed institutions such as the Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, the Museum Of Sacred Art in Durbuy, Belgium, the Cultural International Festival of Miniature & Illumination in Tlemcen, Algeria and the One Asia Project in Auroville, Pondicherry. His career exemplifies dedication and mastery, creating art that resonates across borders and cultures.
Description
Calm Watch of the Wild Cat captures a poised and observant feline painted with careful attention to structure and expression. Mahaveer Swami shapes the face with controlled shading that follows the natural curves of the cheeks, muzzle and brow. The soft spots along the forehead and subtle stripes near the eyes give the portrait gentle character without overpowering its calm presence. The golden eyes are rendered with precision, creating a focused gaze that anchors the entire composition.
The pink nose and delicate whiskers add small but expressive details that enhance the natural realism of the miniature. The warm tone of the old handmade paper enriches the portrait, helping the fine ink work stand out with clarity. The overall expression of the wild cat feels steady and composed, defined by patient technique and understated elegance.
It is a miniature marked by balance, observation and refined linework.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- A serene and expressive portrait emphasizing natural feline feature
- Fine ink detailing highlights the eyes, markings and soft contour
- Old handmade paper adds warmth and texture to the composition
- Ideal for collectors who value quiet, character-rich miniature portrait
What makes Calm Watch of the Wild Cat special?
How does Mahaveer Swami create the soft fur texture?
Is this artwork suitable for modern interiors?
How should this artwork be displayed?
Mahaveer Swami
Bikaner Miniature Artist || Botanical Storyteller || Guardian of Sacred Themes
Unique Practice
He uses "pardaash" (black ink for 3D) and Sone ki syahi (golden effect), characteristic of Bikaner-style painting.