Ida Bagus Made Nadera (Indonesian, 1910-1998), The Birth of Sang Bhoma

oil on fabric, an impressive large composition depicting the Balinese mythology story of the birth of Bhoma in lavish detail, signed to the lower right corner.
Frame dimensions 58 x 35 in.
Ida Bagus Made Nadera was a self taught Balinese painter whose artworks have a strong individual character. His landscapes often convey his concern for the environment, while his paintings of everyday life show his interest in traditions and culture. His enjoyment of reading the ancient Balinese mythology is exemplified in this large scale painting of the Birth of Bhoma. Bhoma was the son of Dewa Wisnu and Dewi Pertiwi, the god of rain and the goddess of earth, and represents growth of vegetarian from the earth. He is depicted as being fierce and terrifying, but acts as a guardian. Nadera portrays the story with figures that are meticulously detailed giving a spiritual and other worldly aura to the composition while still using traditional iconography to depict the characters in the story.

Nadera had his own painting studio in Semabaung, Bedahulu, on the road to Gianyar beginning in the 1960s and was frequently visited by art collectors including Mr. William Sommers, who purchased this painting in the early 1960s from the artist. The purchase was unusual, Nadera offered Mr. Sommers the painting in exchange for his sportscoat, a trade that Mr. Sommers was happy to accept. The painting has remained with the family ever since.
From the Estate of William and Joan Sommers
Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com

Very good condition; two tape repairs evident on reverse.