A unique set of colourful Hindu paintings have been made subject to an export bar to ensure they cannot leave the UK.

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.

The near-complete series of paintings depicts one of the most important narratives in Hinduism, with gold and silver paint used to portray scenes that range from quiet worship to violent battles.

The 200-year-old works of art include a painting showing defeated gods Vishnu and Shiva appealing for help in a scene believ

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