Artwork
Krishna on Kaliya
Krishna on Kaliya is a paint painting by Unknown. It dates from 1974 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Krishna on Kaliya is a black ink drawing on paper, exemplifying the Madhubani painting tradition from Northern Bihar.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the infant Krishna standing on the serpent Kaliya, surrounded by Kaliya's wives and other figures, illustrating a scene from Hindu mythology.
Technique & Style
Characterized by swirling lines, dense patterns, and intricate details, the work showcases the distinctive style of Madhubani painting, with a predominantly monochrome palette punctuated by touches of color.
History & Provenance
Madhubani painting gained recognition after a 1934 earthquake and was documented by W.G. Archer in 1949; by the 1960s, artists began producing works on paper for sale, expanding the tradition's visibility.
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
