The Devi Mahatmya – illustrating the tale of the Divine Mother of Hinduism – are valued at £280,000, according to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. A DCMS spokesman said the 56 paintings present an opportunity for the study of this genre of work and the export bar will allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire them for the nation. More than a million Hindus live in the UK, with the paintings presenting an opportunity for their culture to be both researched and celebrated. Culture Minister Baroness Twycross said: “This series is not only beautiful, but unique in the UK. Committee member Pippa Shirley said: “In these small, jewel-like paintings, an epic unfolds before our eyes.

Source: The Times November 21, 2025 19:34 UTC