This print forms part of a Bombay-based printing company's catalogue album. The company is advertised in the catalogue as "specialists in art religious and foreign calendars all styles and fashions", and offering "distinctive advertising" through "calendars, show cards, plotters, posters, novelties".
Imagery for this print is derived from Ravi Varma's Shesh Narayan. Variously known as a manifestation or servant of Vishnu, Sheshnag or Adishesh, is often depicted, as in Ravi Varma's composition as floating on the 'universal ocean' with Vishnu and his consorts seated or lying on his body.