Krishna was painted by Unknown in 1660.

Where can I see Krishna?

Krishna is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Krishna?

Krishna is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Krishna

Unknown , 1660

Krishna is a paint painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

In the scene, Krishna is depicted hoisting the hill of Govardhan with a single fingertip, protecting his companions from a storm sent by the god Indra.

The work is a 17th‑century Indian painting illustrating a episode from the Bhagavata Purana, the Hindu scripture recounting the early deeds of the deity Krishna. In the scene, Krishna is depicted hoisting the hill of Govardhan with a single fingertip, protecting his companions from a storm sent by the god Indra. The composition includes Indra’s elephant in the upper right, while the deity himself is absent.

Subject & Meaning

The narrative portrays Krishna’s divine intervention to shield the cowherding community from a deluge unleashed by Indra, who is portrayed as envious of Krishna’s power. By raising Mount Govardhan, Krishna demonstrates his role as a protector and emphasizes the triumph of devotion over celestial jealousy, a theme central to the Bhagavata Purana’s portrayal of his youthful exploits.

Technique & Style

Executed around 1640 in the Bundi region of Rajasthan, the painting merges local Rajasthani visual conventions—particularly those of the Mewar school—with the heightened naturalism introduced by Mughal court artists. The work displays a careful handling of line and color, while subtle gradations of tone suggest an early use of atmospheric shading akin to sfumato, lending depth to the figures and landscape.

History & Provenance

The piece originates from the artistic milieu of Bundi, a princely state known for its patronage of miniature painting in the mid‑17th century. Though specific ownership records are scarce, stylistic analysis links it to workshops that served both regional courts and the broader Mughal artistic network, reflecting the cross‑cultural exchanges of the period.