Gaze of the Regal Lion
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
Gaze of the Regal Lion captures the focused intensity of a lion at rest, painted with quiet strength and commanding presence. Mahaveer Swami shapes the face with firm lines that define the contours of the muzzle, brow and eyes. The warm tones of the mane spread outward in soft strokes that create depth and volume, giving the portrait a sculptural quality. The lion’s forward-facing gaze stands out as the focal point, clear and steady, holding the viewer’s attention with calm authority.
The old handmade paper adds a natural warmth that complements the rich shading across the mane and face. Subtle variations in tone bring out the texture of the fur and give the portrait a timeless atmosphere. The controlled use of black ink anchors the features, creating a refined balance between bold detail and gentle transitions.
It is a miniature defined by strength, clarity and expressive character.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- A powerful portrait capturing the lion’s calm yet commanding presence
- Fine shading brings depth to the mane and structure of the face
- Warm paper tones enhance the natural richness of the ink work
- Ideal for collectors who appreciate strong, expressive miniature portrait
What makes Gaze of the Regal Lion special?
How does Mahaveer Swami bring realism into the portrait?
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.