What is the thematic context of Snake charmer?

patua traditions, krishna & radha, west bengal folklore, hindu deities, social critique, dowry violence, kalighat painting revival, lineage

Get a print of Snake charmer

Home
Print on canvas
manik lal das
Snake charmer

Preview

AR preview

Buy Hand Made Painting

Buy Image

Send

WhatsApp
Telegram
Facebook
X (Twitter)
Pinterest
LinkedIn
Reddit

Link copied!

Details

Add to favorites Remove from favorites

X-Ray

Snake charmer

Watercolor
WallArt
Contemporary
2012
Contemporary
55.0 x 38.0 cm
Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art

Explore 'Snake Charmer' by Manik Lal Das (2012). A vibrant Kalighat painting blending mythology & social commentary in watercolor. Indian art, contemporary style.

Manik Lal Das (b. 1962), a contemporary Kalighat painter reviving the traditional Indian art form. Known for vibrant watercolors depicting everyday life, autobiography series & social commentary. Explore his works at WahooArt!

Giclée / Art Print

Museum-quality giclée or canvas print with fast production and flexible finish options. ( Buy Hand Made Painting Buy Image)

Medium
Size
Frame
Options

Print on Cotton Glossy Canvas

Print on Matt Cotton Canvas

Print on Matt Paper

Print on Paper with Frame and Glass

Canvas Rolled in a tube Free

Stretched

Framed

Framed with Antique Wood Gesso

White $1

Blurside $1

Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $30

H24-SILVER $30

H36-GOLD $45

H36-SILVER $45

Framed

Description from JS

Standard custom

Standard

custom

CM INCH

INCH

Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.

choose size

Loading sizes...

width

height

You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the image with a mirrored or solid-fill edge. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.

No Glossy Varnish

Add Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture) + $15

No Artwork Nameplate

Engraved bronze plaque displaying artist name and translated painting title. Size: 9x2 cm. + $10

Transparent acrylic plaque with black UV-engraved artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Black acrylic plaque featuring white engraved text with artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Engraved Bronze Plaque Details

This elegant plaque features the artist's name and the title of the artwork, finely engraved for a timeless presentation.

It is made from bronze with a refined, elegant finish. The text is precisely laser-engraved for a sharp and permanent result. Measuring 9x2 cm, the plaque is compact yet easy to read. It's built to be durable and scratch-resistant, offering a professional, museum-quality look. Mounting is simple thanks to the included adhesive backing.

Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details

The plaque includes essential engraved details such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used-like oil on canvas or watercolor-a brief description of the piece, and a QR code that links to the complete artwork information.

It is crafted from clear acrylic, offering a sleek, modern appearance. The text is UV-engraved in black to ensure strong visual contrast. With a size of 10x15 cm, it ensures optimal readability. It comes equipped with two metal hooks for secure wall mounting. The plaque is designed to be weather-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, and it includes interactive features that work seamlessly with smartphone scanning.

Black Acrylic Plaque Details

This elegant plaque includes engraved information such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used (like oil on canvas or watercolor), a short description of the artwork, and a QR code for quick access to more information.

The plaque itself is made from refined black acrylic with a premium finish. The text is laser-engraved in white for high contrast and readability. Its size is 10x15 cm, designed to be easy to read. It comes with two metal hooks for professional mounting. The design is sleek and fits any interior style. It is also weather-resistant and durable, with built-in digital integration for mobile compatibility.

Need It Urgently? + $30

Worldwide Delivery () in 2 weeks instead of standard 4/5 weeks. (7 September)

Free Worldwide Express Shipping

High-Quality Linen Canvas

Full Shipping Insurance

Customs Tax Refund Guarantee

True Color Matching Guarantee

100-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)

100% Money-Back Guarantee

Bulk Discount Offer

$ 69

ExclamationCircle Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM

Snake charmer

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

-

Reproduction Frame

-

ExclamationCircle For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a ready-to-assemble kit. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.

All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
Easy to assemble using the provided screws - no glue needed.
Assembly guide included; setup takes under 10 minutes with a standard screwdriver.

Important:
Tightening the canvas on the assembled frame may require a canvas stretching plier tool, which is not included in the kit. This tool helps ensure proper tension and a professional finish.

Nameplate

-

Protective Varnish

Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)

-

Urgent

Delivery in less than 3 weeks instead of standard 4/5 weeks. No compromise on quality.

-

Express Shipping

Worldwide Delivery () in 4/5 weeks. (14 September).

Included

Total Price

$ 69

Quick Facts

Influences:
- Scroll Paintings
- West Bengal
Dimensions: 55 x 38 cm
Subject or theme: Mythology, Hindu Iconography
Artistic style: Indian Miniature Painting
Movement: Kalighat Painting
Location: Gallery of Modern Art
Year: 2012

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:

What is Kalam Patua known for?

He is a renowned physicist.

He revived Bengal’s Kalighat painting style.

He specializes in landscape photography.

Question 2:

The artwork depicts a scene inspired by Hindu mythology. Which deity is represented by the male figure?

Lord Shiva

Lord Vishnu

Krishna

Question 3:

What artistic style does Kalam Patua employ in his paintings?

Renaissance realism

Cubism

Bengal miniature painting

Question 4:

The image description highlights the use of stylized clouds and diffused light. What effect is this intended to create?

A dramatic, theatrical mood.

An ethereal atmosphere conveying divinity.

A focus on precise anatomical detail.

Question 5:

What social themes are explored in Kalam Patua’s paintings?

The benefits of globalization.

Issues related to environmental conservation.

Social injustices like dowry deaths and violence against women.

A Dance Between Divinity and Desire: Kalam Patua’s “Snake Charmer”

The artwork "Snake Charmer" by Kalam Patua (b. 1962), is more than just a depiction of an intimate encounter; it's a masterful distillation of Bengali folklore, artistic tradition, and contemporary social commentary—a testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling. Born into the Patua community of scroll painters in Krishnanagar, India, Patua’s artistic journey began organically, inheriting the legacy of his ancestors who skillfully blended craft with narrative to sustain their livelihoods. This influence is palpable in “Snake Charmer,” where he seamlessly integrates elements of Kalighat painting—a vibrant tradition rooted in Bengal’s colonial past—with a distinctly personal vision.

The Revival of Kalighat Painting and Its Unique Style

Kalighat painting emerged as a defiant response to British rule, offering an alternative aesthetic that celebrated Hindu mythology and rural life. Unlike the formal conventions of European miniature painting, Kalighat artists embraced bold colors, simplified forms, and expressive brushstrokes—a stylistic freedom born from necessity and imbued with spiritual fervor. Kalam Patua’s contribution lies in preserving this tradition while injecting it with a modern sensibility. His canvases eschew meticulous realism for stylized representations that prioritize emotional resonance over photographic accuracy. The resulting images possess an immediacy and vibrancy that captures the spirit of Bengal itself.

A Mythological Narrative Illuminated by Earthly Sensuality

The painting portrays Krishna, embodying divine grace and compassion—represented in luminous blue skin—engaged in a captivating dance with Radha, symbolizing idealized beauty and devotion. This iconic pairing from Hindu mythology serves as a framework for exploring themes of attraction and union. However, Patua doesn’t simply reiterate established narratives; he subtly complicates them by grounding the mythological figures within an earthly setting. The male figure is depicted as somewhat balding and vulnerable, attempting to seduce Radha—a deliberate juxtaposition that speaks to anxieties surrounding masculinity and societal expectations.

Symbolism Woven into Watercolor Layers

The artist's masterful use of watercolor—a technique favored for its luminosity and fluidity—further enhances the painting’s emotional impact. Patua employs layering thin washes of color, creating a shimmering surface that mimics the dappled light filtering through foliage. The swirling clouds in the background evoke both celestial grandeur and the dynamism of Bengal’s landscape, mirroring the movement within the figures' bodies. Geometric shapes—primarily used for clothing and decorative elements—provide visual contrast against the organic curves of the human forms and water, emphasizing Patua’s deliberate artistic choices.

Beyond Tradition: Reflections on Contemporary Concerns

“Snake Charmer” transcends its formal roots to engage with pressing social issues. Like many of Patua's works, it confronts themes of dowry violence and gender inequality—subjects prevalent in Indian society today. Yet, amidst these weighty concerns lies a palpable sense of joy and spontaneity—a celebration of human connection and the beauty of everyday life. Kalam Patua’s “Snake Charmer” stands as a powerful reminder that art can illuminate both history and the present, fostering empathy and inspiring contemplation. It's a captivating piece that exemplifies the enduring spirit of Kalighat painting and its ability to communicate profound truths through deceptively simple visual language.

Related Artworks

Femme Nue Sur Fond Bleu Huile Sur Toile Collection Particulière — Henri Matisse, Fauvism

Henri Matisse Femme nue sur fond bleu Huile sur Toile Collection Particulière

Satirical Composition ('the Dance' By Matisse) — Salvador Dalí, Surrealism

Salvador Dalí Satirical Composition ('The Dance' by Matisse)

Young Boy With A Lamb — Franz Marc, German Expressionism

Franz Marc Young Boy with a Lamb

Adam And Eve From Our Historical Heritage — Salvador Dalí, Surrealist Dreamscape

Salvador Dalí Adam and Eve from Our Historical Heritage

Nude With Calla Lilies — Diego Rivera, Contemporary Realism

Diego Rivera Nude with Calla Lilies

Bathing Women And Children — Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, German Expressionism

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner Bathing Women and Children

Stasys Ušinskas The Bather

Dancing Sunadaris — Manik Lal Das, Kalighat Painting

manik lal das Dancing Sunadaris

Sundari With A Peacock — Manik Lal Das, Kalighat Painting

manik lal das Sundari with a peacock

manik lal das Restaurant

Artist Biography

early life and background

manik lal das, also known as kalam patua, is a contemporary exponent of kalighat painting, a traditional indian art form. born in 1962 in krishnanagar, india, he was raised within the patua community of scroll painters and storytellers.

artistic contributions and revival of kalighat paintings

self-taught, manik lal das has been credited with the revival of bengal's kalighat paintings, which had declined after the 1930s. his artworks have been exhibited in various museums and galleries, including: * google arts & culture * queensland art gallery * gallery of modern art

notable works and themes

some of his notable works include:

autobiography - local train (38 x 55 cm, queensland art gallery | gallery of modern art, watercolour), capturing the lively characters on a train.
autobiography (40 x 55 cm, queensland art gallery | gallery of modern art, watercolour), depicting the artist as a young boy pointing to an aeroplane in the sky.
photo (38 x 55 cm, queensland art gallery | gallery of modern art, watercolour), showcasing two female friends self-consciously posing for a photo with new delhi's iconic lotus temple behind them.

artistic style and significance

manik lal das' artworks draw on conventions from west bengal scrolls and indian miniature painting, reflecting the beauty and innovation of traditional indian art. his contributions have been featured in articles for the hindu and artdaily. **view more works by manik lal das on WahooArt.com:** [https://WahooArt.com/@/manik-lal-das](https://WahooArt.com/@/manik-lal-das) | 16 artworks **explore the world of kalighat painting and its exponents on WahooArt.com:** /en/art/show/art-d3ckt3-en/ | the evolution of art styles: from classical to contemporary

manik lal das

1962 - , India

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Kalighat Painting
Date Of Birth: 1962
Full Name: Manik Lal Das
Nationality: Indian
Notable Artworks:
- Snake Charmer
- Photo
- Post office 3 - The runner with the mail
Place Of Birth: Krishnanagar, India

The Magic of Watercolor: A Masterclass in Capturing Light, Fluidity, and Art Historical Elegance

Discover the ethereal beauty of watercolor through an art-historical lens. Master the delicate balance of light, fluidity, and pigment to capture the luminous essence of nature, inspired by the legendary techniques of the Old Masters and Impressionist greats.

Explore Article read article

Mastering the Ethereal: The Definitive Guide to Premium Watercolor Reproductions & Bespoke Commissions

Discover the ethereal beauty of premium watercolor reproductions and bespoke commissions at WahooArt. From museum-quality landscapes to custom AI-enhanced portraits, our master artists deliver unparalleled craftsmanship and white-glove service for discerning collectors worldwide.

Explore Article read article

Mastering the Medium: A Professional Guide to Oil, Acrylic, Tempera, and Watercolor for the Discerning Collector

An expert guide for art collectors exploring the chemistry and artistry of oil, acrylic, tempera, and watercolor. Discover how medium specificity and material integrity define the longevity and value of fine art masterpieces.

Explore Article read article

The Art of Living: Transforming Your Most Cherished Memories into Serene AI-Enhanced Watercolor Masterpieces

Transform your cherished photos into breathtaking watercolor masterpieces with WahooArt. Experience the perfect fusion of AI innovation and hand-painted artistry to create timeless, bespoke legacy pieces for your home. Discover premium quality and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Explore Article read article

The Art of Precision: Exploring the Beauty and Legacy of Scientific Illustration

Discover the exquisite intersection of science and fine art. Explore the history of scientific illustration, from botanical watercolor masters to nature's intricate geometry, through an expert lens of art history and technical precision.

Explore Article read article

Manik Lal Das: The Full Collection

Explore artworks organized by themes, styles, and characteristics.