Procession of the Calm Elephant
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
Procession of the Calm Elephant captures a serene moment of companionship between a mahout and his elephant. Mahaveer Swami paints the elephant with gentle contouring that brings out the soft weight of its form, the round curve of its ears and the steady posture of its legs. The mahout sits comfortably on the decorated saddle cloth, guiding the elephant with quiet confidence. His upright posture and raised hand create a composed rhythm that pairs well with the slow, grounded step of the animal.
The saddle cloth is adorned with delicate gold-lined floral patterns that add warmth and refinement to the composition. Small tassels and straps fall naturally along the elephant’s side, enhancing the elegance of the scene without overwhelming it. The layered handmade paper brings a soft luminosity to the background, allowing the ink work to stand out with clarity. The faint ground texture beneath their feet gives the artwork a peaceful sense of space.
It is a miniature defined by dignity, gentleness and balanced craftsmanship.
Why This Artwork Stands Out:
- A calm and refined portrayal of a mahout guiding his elephant
- Gold accents add richness to the decorative cloth and accessorie
- Soft shading on layered handmade paper creates depth and atmosphere
- Ideal for collectors who appreciate classic, graceful miniature composition
What makes Procession of the Calm Elephant special?
How does Mahaveer Swami bring refinement to this scene?
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.