The 200-year-old paintings blocked from leaving the UK

Your support helps us tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground as the story unfolds. Whether it’s investigating the finances of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word,’ which sheds light on American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to separate facts from messages.

We need reporters on the ground at such a critical moment in U.S. history. Your donation allows us to continue sending journalists to tell both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news sources, we choose not to exclude Americans from our reporting and analysis through paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to all and paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes a big difference.

A unique collection of vibrant Hindu paintings has been placed under an export ban, preventing them from leaving the UK. According to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Devi Mahatmya series, which vividly depicts the narrative of the Divine Mother of Hinduism, is worth £280,000.

A DCMS spokesperson emphasized that the 56 paintings provide an important opportunity for the study of this artistic genre. The export ban is intended to provide sufficient time for a UK gallery or institution to purchase works on behalf of the country.

This nearly completed series depicts one of the most important narratives of Hinduism, using gold and silver paint to depict scenes ranging from serene worship to intense battles.

The 200-year-old artworks include a painting showing the defeated gods Vishnu and Shiva calling for help; this scene is believed to be unique to this particular collection.

The 200-year-old artworks include a painting showing the defeated gods Vishnu and Shiva calling for help; this scene is believed to be unique to this particular collection. (DCMS/PA Cable)

The spokesman said there was no other similar series surviving in the UK and the paintings were a reminder of the cultural link between the UK and the Punjab region.

More than one million Hindus live in the UK and the images provide an opportunity for both exploration and celebration of their culture.

Culture Minister Baroness Twycross said: “This series is not only beautiful, it is unique in the UK.

“With virtually no completed similar narratives in our country, it is vital that we take the chance of keeping this series in the UK now, giving researchers crucial time to unlock its mysteries.”

The decision was made in line with the advice of the Review Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA).

Committee member Pippa Shirley said: “In these small, jewel-like images, an epic unfolds before our eyes. We see Devi, the divine mother of Hinduism, in her various manifestations as the fearsome, many-armed Kali slaying demons in savage battles, contrasted with courtly life, scenes of worship and tranquil landscapes populated by a menagerie.”

“These encouraged storytelling, the recitation of Sanskrit hymns at weddings or family gatherings, and were remarkable for their integrity.

“They shed light on artistic workshop practices and raise questions about the social and devotional use and collection of such materials during the colonial period.

“They are also a powerful expression of divine female power. Since there is no similar group in the country, it is important that they remain here so that they can be better understood and enjoyed by the widest possible audience.”