Gentle Watch of the Pale 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
Gentle Watch of the Pale Wild Cat presents a soft and attentive portrait shaped with precision and quiet expression. Mahaveer Swami renders the wild cat in profile, giving clear focus to the round golden eyes that reflect alert curiosity. Fine strokes shape the forehead markings, the soft contours of the cheeks and the subtle stripes along the face. The pale fur is shaded with delicate gradation, giving the cat a natural and gentle presence.
The pink nose and fine whiskers add small touches of warmth that strengthen the realism of the portrait. The old handmade paper enriches the artwork with a warm, organic texture that supports the controlled ink work. The overall composition feels balanced, calm and thoughtfully crafted, highlighting the animal’s quiet awareness.
This miniature stands out for its softness, clarity and understated elegance.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- A tender and expressive portrait focusing on soft feline feature
- Detailed ink work highlights the eyes, markings and delicate fur texture
- Warm handmade paper enhances the natural tones of the artwork
- Ideal for collectors who appreciate gentle, intimate miniature studie
What makes Gentle Watch of the Pale Wild Cat special?
How does Mahaveer Swami shape the delicate 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.