Seduction in Monochrome

Many paintings, hailing from the Hindu courts in Rajasthan and the Punjab hills, reiterate the frankness of Indian art in the depiction of female charms, where there has been no inhibition in delineating female nudity.

Something is weighing heavily on the man's mind. Not only his gesture but his disposition also says so – neither wine nor woman are able to take his mind off the issue. With his head held in his hand, shirt unbuttoned, he does not look at the beauty trying to seduce him with intoxicants and voluptuous curves. The woman is topless with the lower garment also slipping away. She offers consolation and wine to the man who does not accept either. Her broad forehead ends in the beginning of long, curling tresses, following the body curves. Her perfect features are complimented by an understanding smile on her lips. The diaphanous skirt, in its transparently, adds to her sex-appeal. Alas! It is wasted on a man whose mind is miles away.

The picture is erotic and carnal, but it combines delicacy and boldness in equal measures.

This description by Kiranjyot.