Who painted Krishna, Balarama and Kansa?

Krishna, Balarama and Kansa was painted by Unknown in 1830.

Where can I see Krishna, Balarama and Kansa?

Krishna, Balarama and Kansa is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Krishna, Balarama and Kansa?

Krishna, Balarama and Kansa is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Krishna, Balarama and Kansa

Unknown , 1830

Krishna, Balarama and Kansa is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 19th-century Indian painting, circa 1830, portrays a pivotal moment from Hindu mythology in vibrant, flat colors on paper using opaque watercolour. The scene captures the confrontation between divine brothers Krishna and Balarama and the demon king Kansa.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Krishna (blue-skinned, holding a red ball and green disc), Balarama (pale-faced, in a green skirt with red sashes), and Kansa (seated in gray and purple, with a gesture suggesting adjustment of his hair). The subject highlights the mythological narrative of Krishna and Balarama's attack on their uncle Kansa, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Technique & Style

Executed in opaque watercolour on paper, the work exemplifies the Kalighat style, characterized by bold, flat forms and bright, unshaded colors. The stark contrast of Krishna's blue skin against the more subdued tones of the other figures is a notable stylistic element.

History & Provenance

Created around 1830, the painting's origins and ownership history prior to its current location are not specified in available information.

Context

Emerging from the Kalighat tradition, this painting reflects the popular religious art of 19th-century India, particularly in the Bengal region, where such works were often created for devotional and narrative purposes.

Legacy

As part of the Kalighat painting tradition, this work contributes to the understanding and appreciation of Indian folk art's evolution and its representation of mythological themes in a distinctive, accessible visual language.