Monkey Tales

Hanuman is one of India’s most beloved gods. Depicted as part human and part monkey with a miraculous tail, Hanuman delights his admirers in both his appearance and actions. His enduring popularity is closely linked to his heroic role in the Indian epic, the Ramayana (Legend of Lord Rama), where he is renowned as a brave warrior with supernatural skills, and also as an intensely loyal friend and devotee. Because of his popularity, images of Hanuman are prevalent in most of India’s pictorial arts. Yet great diversity arises in the manner in which he is portrayed.

This exhibition of paintings, puppets, and textiles from the museum’s collection is an introduction to this revered figure of Indian culture as well as a journey through India’s rich and varied arts.