As old as history, as old as civilization white horses have been mythologised as possessing some exceptional properties. In Greek mythology it was the mighty Pegasus who transcended the normal world by having wings – one artist who used the story of Pegasus in his metaphors was Tyeb Mehta. Aslam Shaikh creates the white horse with a mythic mood and gives us a handsome creature that is dressed in the finery of one who celebrates both fantasy and reality
This work makes us think of Samudramanthan tales in which the enchanted white horse Uchaishravas had seven heads and was truly majestic. Aslam gives us many references in this work – perhaps like the white horses which belonged to what was and is eternally divine, those who appeared in stories to prophesy or warn of danger, like Ashwamedha.
Aslam’s horse is both rare as well as distinguished, white horses typically bear the hero – or god-figure in ceremonial roles or in triumph over negative forces. White horses have been held sacred. The white horse is also the vahana – the mount of the coming incarnation of the God Vishnu, Kalki Avatar. The white horse carries patron saints as well as saviours in Hinduism, Christianity and especially Islam where the white horse is taken to be symbolic of pristine, divine power. The white horse is a symbol of significance in various traditions and a metaphor of speed, strength and winsome validity. In this case the magnificent beast could burst on to the canvas out of the sea or sun or the lull of evening light, a bolt of lightning with festooned embellishments with an appeal that transcends sects and creeds.
ASLAM SHAIKH
Ashwamedha II
Acrylic on Canvas
48 x 72 inches
2017