Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v2.c76.124

v2.c76.124

Thus, according to Citralakṣaṇam, the science of painting (Citravidyā) arose in this world. We, however, get a different story in the Viṣṇudharmottaram as to the origin of this science. The rules of citra were evolved by the sage Nārāyaṇa for the good of the world. It is said by the sage Mārkaṇḍeya: The two sages Nara and Nārāyaṇa were engaged in penance at their hermitage of Vadarī. While they were thus engaged in practising penances, the apsarasas came to cause hindrance to their penances. Roaming amorously and culling flowers they were seen by Nārāyaṇa, who could easily discern their purpose. Taking the juice of a mango tree, which excites amour, he created the auspicious nymph with charming limbs by making a picture of her. The damsel, beautifully drawn, created through painting, in that very moment, was endowed with large eyes. No goddess, no gāndharvī, no wife of an asura and no nāga damsel, no woman like her was (to be found) in the three worlds. Having seen her, all the ten apsarasas went away in shame.