Artwork
Story of Krishna and Radha
Story of Krishna and Radha is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. The work portrays an interior scene in which three female figures occupy a modestly furnished room.
About this work
Overview
The work portrays an interior scene in which three female figures occupy a modestly furnished room. One woman sits on the floor, her arms extended outward, while two others stand nearby, each dressed in distinct hues. The setting includes a red, floral‑patterned carpet and walls adorned with elaborate decorative motifs, with a building and a tree visible through an opening in the background.
Subject & Meaning
The composition suggests a narrative moment drawn from the mythic romance of Krishna and Radha, focusing on the emotional interaction among the women. The gestures and positioning of the figures convey a sense of invitation and dialogue, reflecting themes of devotion and relational dynamics central to the story.
Technique & Style
The painter employs a balanced palette, juxtaposing the green of the seated figure’s dress with the yellow and purple garments of the standing women, against the dominant red of the carpet. Detailed line work renders the intricate wall patterns and textile designs, while the spatial arrangement creates a harmonious equilibrium within the confined interior.
History & Provenance
No specific information on the artwork’s date, creator, or ownership history is provided, limiting knowledge of its provenance or exhibition record.
Context
The scene aligns with a broader tradition of Indian visual storytelling that depicts episodes from the Krishna‑Radha legend, often emphasizing intimate domestic settings and the nuanced expressions of the participants.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
