Skip to main content

A Young Goswami

Late 19th - early 20th century
Artist/maker unknown, Indian
This painting was made in Rajasthan at Nathdwara, a pilgrimage site associated with Shrinathji, a form of the god Krishna. It shows a partially colored and corrected drawing of a young goswami (priest) from the Nathdwara lineage. The vertical lines on his head indicate his allegiance to Vishnu, of whom Krishna is an incarnation. The gold hoop earrings hung with two pearls and a gem are often associated with Nathdwara priests. The frontal portrayal reveals a different aesthetic from most of the works on view in this gallery, reflecting the impact of European (especially British) painting on India’s religious imagery at the time this was painted.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.