Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Currently not on view

Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Second half of 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Bengali

Squeezed between feathery corner kalkas (paisley motifs) are multiple images of Krishna playing his flute. In the two axial images, Krishna crosses his foot in the iconic posture of the Gopala (Cowherd Lord). On one side he stands alone; on the other, Radha appears by his side. Perpendicular to the latter is a third Krishna, this time seated on a stool. Across from him, a gopi (cowherd woman) with a hand fan attends the divine couple. All the women arch their ornamental head coverings above them.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Date:

Second half of 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Bengali

Medium:

Cotton plain weave with cotton embroidery in buttonhole, chain, satin, running, and dot stitches

Dimensions:

8 1/2 x 18 1/2 inches (21.6 x 47 cm)

Classification:

Textiles

Credit Line:

The Jill and Sheldon Bonovitz Collection, 2009

Accession Number:

2009-250-10

Geography:

Made in Undivided Bengal, Asia Possibly made in Bangladesh, Asia Possibly made in West Bengal, India, Asia

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Currently not on view