{"product_id":"the-grand-circle-mandala-in-madhubani-by-pratima-bharti","title":"The grand circle: Mandala in Madhubani by Pratima Bharti","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eThis large-scale Madhubani mandala by Pratima Bharti is a dense narrative work that centers on a noble figure or deity mounted on a horse, surrounded by the diverse inhabitants of the Mithila landscape. The composition is structured as a series of concentric rings, a format that symbolizes the cosmic order and the interconnectedness of all life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAt the absolute center, a rider is depicted on a horse, rendered with the profile view and almond-shaped eyes typical of the tradition. This central motif acts as a pivot point for the entire piece. Radiating outward, the first few rings are populated by stylized elephants and human figures. The elephants, shown in rhythmic succession, represent wisdom and strength, while the human figures, often shown with linked arms, suggest a community in celebration or ritual.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe outer layers of the mandala are dedicated to avian life, specifically peacocks and pairs of peacocks. In Mithila iconography, the peacock is a symbol of beauty, romance, and protective energy. Bharti captures these birds in various poses—some with tails fanned and others in quiet pairs—using the fine, repetitive hatching of the Katchni style to detail their plumage. The repetition of these pairs adds a sense of duality and balance to the circular narrative.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTechnically, the painting is a sophisticated blend of black ink linework and earthy ochre, orange, and red washes. The use of these warm tones provides a grounded, traditional feel to the piece. Every inch of the rings is activated with pattern, from small floral fillers to geometric dividers, ensuring a high level of visual energy throughout the composition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe entire mandala is enclosed in a thick, rectangular border. The outermost edge features a series of dark, oval seed-like motifs, followed by several layers of delicate parallel lines. This formal framing serves to contain the expansive, circular movement of the narrative, focusing the viewer’s attention on the central rider and the harmonious rings of animals and birds that follow.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pratima Bharti","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40870197657789,"sku":"","price":12000.0,"currency_code":"INR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1194\/1498\/files\/Image_1_2_8c1b24c8-5183-4a5e-a70f-be4427928f52.png?v=1774876845","url":"https:\/\/www.memeraki.com\/products\/the-grand-circle-mandala-in-madhubani-by-pratima-bharti","provider":"Memeraki Retail and Tech Pvt Ltd.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}