Samba dressed as a pregnant woman being presented to the sages

During nineteenth century the princely state of Barddhaman (Burdwan) in Bengal had patronized literature and arts immensely. Many ancient Sanskrit scriptures and Hindu epics were translated into Bangla and published regularly. The then ruler of Barddhaman, Maharaja Mahatab Chand Bahadur (1820 – 1879) encouraged such activities.

Here we showcase six illustrations from the Barddhaman edition of Mahabharata, which were printed in wood engraving technique. On the cover was pasted a wood engraved portrait of the ruler of Barddhaman.

wood engraving technique