Souvenir Painting of Krishna Playing His Flute

Currently not on view

Souvenir Painting of Krishna Playing His Flute

c. 1940

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Krishna, the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu, is a favorite subject of Orissan chitrapatas. Like the hero-god Rama (who is another incarnation of Vishnu), Krishna is identified by his blue skin. Krishna grew up in the rural village of Vrindavan where he herded cows with the other village boys. He was a beautiful youth who was loved by all, especially women. Krishna is typically portrayed playing a flute, one leg crossed in front of the other, and surrounded by adoring gopis (cowherd women).

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Souvenir Painting of Krishna Playing His Flute
Krishna Playing His Flute

Date:

c. 1940

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Medium:

Opaque watercolor on cloth

Dimensions:

Diameter (Sheet Diameter): 7 3/8 inches (18.7 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Gift of Carl Zigrosser, 1972

Accession Number:

1972-237-19

Geography:

Made in Puri District, Odisha, Puri Region, India, Asia

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Currently not on view