Shashikala Devi - Artwork 720

A dense, narrative panel rendered in fine black linework and restrained colour, this composition unfolds around a central tree teeming with stylised birds, animals and human figures. The surface is rhythmically divided into registers by decorative lotus borders and patterned columns; each compartment contains delicate vegetal motifs and figural vignettes that read like episodes from rural life and myth. Executed with the meticulous hatchwork and ornamental motifs typical of traditional Mithila painting, the piece balances busy patterning with careful negative space.

The palette—predominantly black with touches of red, pink and green—lends an antique intimacy while the hand-drawn borders and repeating motifs emphasise its handcrafted folk character.