Krishna Encounters the Elephant Kuvalayapida

Currently not on view

Krishna Encounters the Elephant Kuvalayapida

c. 1720

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Krishna's evil uncle Kansa arranged a great wrestling match to be held in a grandly decorated arena. Hearing the sounds of preparation, Krishna and Balarama try to enter the arena but the great elephant Kuvalayapida blocks their way. Krishna tells the elephant driver to move-or else-but his threat enrages both driver and elephant. The top section of this painting shows Kansa enthroned in the arena and talking with a group of courtiers. The lower section depicts the moment when the brothers encounter elephant and driver.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Krishna Encounters the Elephant Kuvalayapida
Page from a dispersed series of the Bhagavata Purana

Date:

c. 1720

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Medium:

Opaque watercolor on paper

Dimensions:

Image: 8 7/8 × 7 5/8 inches (22.5 × 19.4 cm) Sheet: 10 3/8 × 9 inches (26.4 × 22.9 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Lessing J. Rosenwald, 1959

Accession Number:

1959-93-66

Geography:

Made in Gujarat, India, Asia Probably made in Surat, Gujarat, India, Asia

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.

Currently not on view