Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Mata Bhag Kaur

Devender Pal Singh, 2011

Name Class Date
Devender Pal Singh, Mata Bhag Kaur (2011), The Sikh Foundation International. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Devender Pal Singh wahooart.com/en/artists/devender-pal-singh/
Artist’s dates
1947 –
Painted
2011
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
91 x 61 cm
Movement
Contemporary Realism Living artists painting the real world with traditional skill, often from photographs as well as from life.
Period
Contemporary
Held at
The Sikh Foundation International wahooart.com/en/museums/the-sikh-foundation-international-montreal/
Artistic style
Contemporary Indian realism
Notable elements
Woman riding a white horse with a sword
Subject or theme
Sikh history and female warrior leadership

Copyright This work is treated as still under copyright. Devender Pal Singh was born in 1947 and has no recorded death date; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 11, 2026

Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh

How big is it?

The original measures 91 × 61 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1940
  2. 1950
  3. 1960
  4. 1970
  5. 1980
  6. 1990
  7. 2000
  8. 2010

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span, counting 0 from birth.

Painted when the artist was 64. 0 of the 12 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

▲ this work, 2011 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: wahooart.com/en/art/similar/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Driftwood #ae8734

    Catalogued palette

    • #AE8734
    • #677270
    • #5F4B2C
    • #BCB7B4

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Dark The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Driftwood
    Intensity
    Vivid How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Gentle How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Balanced Harmony How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Clear Color Presence How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Devender Pal Singh over the last twelve months — 2 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 60.0%300 visits
    2. 2 United States of America 40.0%200 visits

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 5 most looked-at works by Devender Pal Singh

    1. 1 Guru Gobind Singh and Sahibzada Ajit Singh at Chamkaur, 2011 42.9%300 visits
    2. 2 Jassa Singh - Ramgharia Misal, 2016 28.6%200 visits
    3. 3 Guru Gobind Singh baptising the Five Beloved, 2014 14.3%100 visits
    4. 4 Tara Singh Gaiba - Dallewalia Misal, 2016 14.3%100 visits
    5. — Mata Bhag Kaur, 2011 this painting 0.0%0 visits

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 12 works by this artist, of which 4 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 11, 2026

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh

    A Vision of Valor: The Spirit of Mata Bhag Kaur

    In the sweeping, evocative oil on canvas titled Mata Bhag Kaur, contemporary Indian master Devender Pal Singh invites us into a pivotal moment of Sikh history, rendered with a profound sense of movement and reverence. The painting captures the fierce determination of Mata Bhag Kaur, a legendary figure of courage, as she rides a majestic white horse through the tumultuous landscape of the Battle of Muktsar in 1705. Singh does not merely depict a historical event; he breathes life into the very essence of resistance and devotion. As the eye travels across the canvas, one is immediately struck by the central figure’s commanding presence. Clad in the spirit of a warrior, she holds her ground amidst the chaos of conflict, her sword poised as a symbol of both justice and unyielding faith. The white horse beneath her serves as a brilliant focal point, its purity contrasting sharply with the grit and intensity of the battlefield, symbolizing a divine light shining through the darkness of war.

    The technical mastery of Singh is evident in the intricate layering of oil pigments, which lends a palpable texture to the scene. Each brushstroke contributes to a sense of depth, making the surrounding figures—the men engaged in conversation, the soldiers preparing for the fray, and the onlookers caught in the gravity of the moment—feel like living participants in this historical epic. The artist utilizes a rich, earthy palette that grounds the painting in the soil of Punjab, yet he punctuates the composition with highlights that draw attention to the strength and leadership qualities of the protagonist. For the discerning collector or interior designer, this piece offers more than just visual splendor; it provides a narrative anchor for a room, bringing an atmosphere of historical weight and heroic inspiration to any curated space.

    Beyond its aesthetic brilliance, Mata Bhag Kaur serves as a profound meditation on identity and redemption. The painting commemorates the "Chali Mukhtae," the forty Sikhs who sought to redeem themselves through their bravery in this monumental battle. Singh masterfully weaves together the personal devotion of Mata Bhag Kaur with the collective struggle of her people, creating a tapestry of human emotion that ranges from the tension of combat to the quiet resolve of the faithful. This work is an exquisite choice for those seeking to adorn their homes with art that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of legacy. To possess a reproduction of this masterpiece is to hold a fragment of history, rendered with a contemporary soul that continues to resonate with modern sensibilities.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 11, 2026

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Devender Pal Singh

    Born in Amritsar, India

    **early life and education**

    devender pal singh, a renowned contemporary indian artist, was born on november 6, 1947, in amritsar, punjab. his father, sewak singh (g.d. art lahore), was a well-known artist, which likely influenced devender's inclination towards art from an early age. devender received his formal education in mumbai, ludhiana, and chandigarh, laying the foundation for his future artistic endeavors.

    **artistic career and notable works**

    devender pal singh is celebrated for his series of paintings on bara maha, which have been widely appreciated by art enthusiasts. his work often reflects the rich cultural heritage of punjab, making him a notable figure among punjabi artists worldwide. some of his notable works include:

    jassa singh - ramgharia misal (81 x 106 cm, oil on canvas, the sikh foundation international, montreal, canada), which showcases his skill in capturing the essence of historical figures.

    sada kaur - kanhaiya misal (81 x 106 cm, oil on canvas, the sikh foundation international, montreal, canada), highlighting his ability to portray strong female leaders in sikh history.

    mata bhag kaur (91 x 61 cm, oil on canvas, the sikh foundation international, montreal, canada), demonstrating his deep understanding of the role of women in sikhism.

    **contribution to the art world and legacy**

    devender pal singh's contributions to the world of art are multifaceted. his work not only preserves the historical narratives of punjab but also inspires a new generation of artists. through his art, he has managed to transcend geographical boundaries, making his work a part of global art discourse. *view more artworks by devender pal singh on AllPaintingsStore.com: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/devender-pal-singh](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/devender-pal-singh) - explore the extensive collection of devender pal singh's artworks. * /en/art/show/art-d3cl2x-en/ - discover how AllPaintingsStore’s extensive collection can guide you through different periods and styles of art.

    **conclusion**

    devender pal singh's artistic journey is a testament to his dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of punjab through his paintings. as a contemporary indian artist, he continues to inspire with his work, making him an integral part of india's vibrant art scene. *learn more about devender pal singh and his art on AllPaintingsStore.com [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/d9mt58-devender-pal-singh-jassa-singh-ramgharia-misal](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/d9mt58-devender-pal-singh-jassa-singh-ramgharia-misal) - dive into the details of his notable painting, jassa singh - ramgharia misal. * [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/prabha-agge](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/prabha-agge) - compare devender pal singh's style with other indian artists like prabha agge.

    Museum

    The Sikh Foundation International

    On show in Montreal, Canada

    A Beacon of Cultural Heritage in Montreal

    In the vibrant cultural landscape of Montreal, Canada,

    The Sikh Foundation International

    stands as a profound testament to the power of artistic preservation and multiculturalism. It serves as a vital custodian of history, bridging the gap between the ancestral traditions of the Punjab region and the contemporary North American fabric. Through its dedicated efforts, the foundation fosters a space where the spiritual and the aesthetic converge, offering a window into the rich, complex identity of the Sikh community. This is not merely a repository for objects, but a living connection to a heritage that continues to evolve and inspire within a globalized world.

    The Splendor of the Sikh Art Collection

    The collection held under the auspices of the foundation is a breathtaking tapestry of devotion, craftsmanship, and historical narrative. It features remarkable works on paper that capture the divine essence of the ten Gurus, rendered with a precision that speaks to both spiritual reverence and technical mastery. Collectors and art enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the luminous beauty of

    Janamsakhi

    illustrations from the mid-19th century, where gouache, powdered gold ink, and delicate gold leaf create a celestial glow. These works do more than depict history; they invite the viewer into a sacred dialogue with the past.

    Beyond the sacred portraiture, the collection offers a panoramic view of the Sikh Empire’s illustrious era through splendid illuminations representing famous Maharajas. The artistry extends into the tactile realm of textile and numismatics, presenting a sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to historians and interior designers alike. Notable highlights include:

    Exquisite

    phulkari

    shawls, which showcase the intricate and vibrant Punjabi textile traditions.

    Rare and significant

    nanakshahi

    coins, providing a tangible link to an era of great artistic effervescence.

    Poignant historical publications that contextualize the Sikh experience during the British Raj.

    For those with an eye for detail, these pieces represent a unique intersection of ritual object and fine art, making the foundation's holdings an essential cornerstone for anyone seeking to understand the profound cultural tapestry of the Indian subcontinent as it manifests in Canada.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Mata Bhag Kaur

    wahooart.com/en/art/download/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Singh, Devender Pal. Mata Bhag Kaur. 2011, The Sikh Foundation International. https://wahooart.com/en/art/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/
    APA
    Singh, Devender Pal (2011). Mata Bhag Kaur [Painting]. The Sikh Foundation International. https://wahooart.com/en/art/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/
    Chicago
    Devender Pal Singh. Mata Bhag Kaur. 2011. The Sikh Foundation International. https://wahooart.com/en/art/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/
    Harvard
    Singh, Devender Pal (2011) Mata Bhag Kaur. The Sikh Foundation International. Available at: https://wahooart.com/en/art/devender-pal-singh-mata-bhag-kaur-D8FEEX-en/

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 11, 2026

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: mata bhag kaur, sikh history, warrior woman. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Baba Deep Singh - Saheed Misal (2016), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Contemporary Realism: Living artists painting the real world with traditional skill, often from photographs as well as from life. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 11, 2026

    Mata Bhag Kaur — Devender Pal Singh Part 5 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    Does the copyright of "Mata Bhag Kaur" by Devender Pal Singh allow reproductions?

    The copyright status of "Mata Bhag Kaur" by Devender Pal Singh is clear: the work is still protected by copyright. Its presence at The Sikh Foundation International does not change that status.

    What is the recommended print size for "Mata Bhag Kaur" by Devender Pal Singh?

    "Mata Bhag Kaur" is recommended at a large print size. Other sizes are available with the same proportions.

    Is "Mata Bhag Kaur" by Devender Pal Singh a bright or a dark artwork?

    In terms of perceived brightness, "Mata Bhag Kaur" by Devender Pal Singh is balanced.