According to the text of Devi Mahatmayam (Glory of the Goddess), Devi manifested herself as Durga to slay the buffalo-demon Mahishasura and was thus called Mahisasuramardini. In this painting, she is shown with ten arms, holding various weapons gifted to her by the male gods. Of golden complexion, she is dressed in a fine costume and extraordinary ornaments. A nimbus surrounding her head is symbolic of her divine status.
Mahisha is seen here emerging out of his buffalo form and immediately caught by Durga by his hair. Using the spear and the trident, she slays him. Her mount, the lion standing beside her, feeds on the demon's blood, even as the chopped head of the animal lies down.
The artist has used bright colours within the bounds of firmly etched black lines. It is noteworthy that amidst such brilliant colours, the eyes - of the goddess, the demon or the animals are stark white with large eyeballs forming prominent and noticeable features. The painting has a twin border in relentless bright colours.
This description by Kiranjyot.
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