Krishna Sheltering Radha from a Storm

2009.291

Krishna Sheltering Radha from a Storm

2009.291

Description

Though depicting somewhat stiff and stunted human figures, the painting is lively with colour and movement. The gopas have come to the forest and are seated, covered with a blanket, near a fast-flowing rivulet or probably the river Yamuna which bends sharply at the left. Cows and calves of variegated colours have also drawn near to drink water. The westerly monsoon wind is blowing, bending the trees to the right. Krishna, standing under a tree, covers Radha with his kari kamari, the black blanket usually carried by cowherds. On the other side, a bed of leaves is prepared for them in a beautifully decorated arched pavilion and he is seen again in the centre, leading Radha to it. His black blanket is blowing about with the wind and can hardly protect them.

Dressed in bright yellow and orange attire, Krishna and Radha are set against the dark brown background typical of the Mewar school. Rain clouds have gathered in the sky, brightened by lightning which appears like golden snakes. The text of the inscription above the painting is probably from a composition by one of the saint poets of the Vallabhacharya sect.

Translation of Hindi inscription at the top:

The cool breeze is blowing, the bed of leaves is
prepared, protecting her with a black blanket as
she is thoroughly drenched, Krishna is now
leading Radha to the bower

Karl and Meherbai Khandalavala Collection

Collection

Indian Miniature Paintings

Object Type

Miniature Painting

Material

Paper

Schools/Culture/Period

Rajasthani

Technique

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Date

1700-1710 CE

Location

Mewar

Dimension

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