INDIAN MURALS: A NEW STANDARD WORK OF ART HISTORY

Temple walls telling stories of miracles, and magnificent palace facades capturing centuries-old epics in vivid colors: With Indische Wandbilder: Eine Reise zu Göttern und Mythen des Hinduismus, an opulent coffee table book has been published that extensively documents this unique chapter of Indian art history.

A Who's Who of the Indian Pantheon

The work is dedicated to wall painting, which experienced its heyday between 1600 and 1950 in the regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Through around 120 key themes and figures, author Hilde Lauwaert makes the complex myths of Hinduism accessible and engaging for a wide audience. The book serves as a true who's who of the Indian pantheon.

From Agni to the omnipresent Krishna and the figure of the Yogi, readers encounter the great, timeless narratives of this world religion. At the same time, the book builds a bridge to the present day, illustrating how the deities depicted in these murals continue to be worshipped in living rituals and vibrant festivals today. Across 400 pages, an impressive panorama unfolds, offering immediate access to the spiritual heart of India through the splendour of its colors and forms.

Foreword by Mithu Sanyal

Cultural scholar and bestselling author Mithu Sanyal contributed the foreword for the edition. She creates a fascinating arc between historical cultural heritage and contemporary perception, demonstrating that these visual worlds are not merely relics of the past, but universal stories about identity, transformation, and fundamental human questions.

About the Author

Hilde Lauwaert has dedicated decades to researching Indian cultural heritage. Following her standard reference work on Bundi wall paintings (2013), she conducted years of field research for this book, photographically documenting hundreds of additional, often hidden artworks to convey the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology in a vivid and accessible way.

Book Design and Features

In its physical presence, the volume lives up to its opulent subject: high-quality features and brilliant printing showcase the often hard-to-access murals in all their glory. The thoughtful layout gives these historical artworks a modern, generous setting, making the book an aesthetic delight for art lovers.

Publication Highlights at a Glance

• New Standard Work of Art History: The first publication to document Indian mural painting from 1600 to 1950 in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh in such comprehensive detail.
• Who's Who of Hindu Deities: Around 120 central themes, deities, and myths explained clearly—from Agni and Krishna to the Yogi.
• Bridge to the Present: Connects mythological backgrounds with practices alive today in art, culture, festivals, and philosophy.
• Foreword by Mithu Sanyal: A compelling contribution by the cultural scholar and bestselling author on the contemporary relevance of Indian myths.