Clash of the Colossi
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
Clash of the Colossi captures a dramatic moment where two elephants rise in confrontation, their trunks intertwined in raw power and instinct. Mahaveer Swami renders the scene with remarkable restraint, using natural black ink to shape each muscle, curve and ripple of tension. Pure gold accents glimmer across the harnesses, bells and ornaments, adding a regal contrast to the otherwise monochrome palette.
Beneath the towering animals, attendants rush forward… some pleading, some guiding, some simply caught in awe. A rider on horseback stretches out his arms as if urging calm, yet the energy of the composition moves upward, centring on the clash. The stillness of the background makes the motion feel even more intense, like time has paused at the height of conflict.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- Powerful depiction of movement, force and scale
- Fine miniature detailing balanced with bold composition
- Elegant use of natural black ink with pure gold embellishment
- Collectible for admirers of historic narratives and dynamic scene
What does Clash of the Colossi represent?
Which materials are used to create Clash of the Colossi?
Why is Clash of the Colossi valued by collectors?
Where does Clash of the Colossi look best when 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.