I first spotted the distinctive patterned street mosaics on Senado Square in Macau, in 2009. Then again, a couple of years later, in Rio de Janeiro. They were strong reminders of the stories of the first global explorations, of the age of discoveries initiated by one of the largest colonial empires in history. It is […]
Tag Archives: Art
Thanjavur – Sublime Chola Heritage
posted by Madhu
I am not a temple goer. I find the energy and fervour and the attendant din of a crowded temple distracting. Rare visits on special occasions are more nostalgic concessions to tradition, rather than opportunities for communion with God. But the vibe at each of the three temples that constitute the UNESCO inscribed ‘Great Living Chola Temple‘ ensemble was different. And visiting […]
The Dancing Girl And The Goddess
posted by Madhu
A primitive dancing girl and a Tantric Goddess trigger reflections on the current status of women in India.
Weekly Photo Challenge – Twist
posted by Madhu
Peggy Guggenheim’s irreverence and sense of humour is evident from this 1948 Marino Marini sculpture presiding over the canal side entrance to her old home Palazzo Venier de Leoni (Now home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection). The bronze male nude astride a horse is hardly what you would expect to be titled ‘Angel of the City’! Serious scrutiny…….. […]
The Gilded Bas Relief Of Wat Mai
posted by Madhu
Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham on Sisavangvong street, was once the principle royal monastery, the residence of the chief Laotian Buddhist dignitary (Phra Sangkharat), and the repository of the 33″ high, gold alloy Buddha icon (Phra Bang), that Laung Prabang derives its name from. It also once held the famed Emerald Buddha, that was moved to Vientiane, before being carted […]
A Passion For Egypt
posted by Madhu
Plundered art and antiques, should rightfully be returned to their countries of origin and displayed in situ. So I believed, very passionately, until I learned of the burning of the Institute d’Egypte, near Tahrir square in Cairo in December 2011. And of the destruction of almost all the precious manuscripts it contained. Among them, it […]
Better Brown Than Brassy!
posted by Madhu
During my ethnic phase, I used to be partial to browns. My colour schemes usually ranged from pale beige to taupe to dark mahogany, with warm colour highlights. Of late however, I find myself leaning towards the more contemporary white/grey palette. Strange how our tastes evolve! Here is a gallery of browns from my travels, […]