Artwork

Radha

Radha, by Unknown, paint, 1788
Radha, by Unknown, paint, 1788

Radha is a paint painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This painting depicts a vibrant scene of women celebrating the Hindu festival of Holi, marking the arrival of spring.

About this work

Overview

This painting depicts a vibrant scene of women celebrating the Hindu festival of Holi, marking the arrival of spring. The artwork showcases two groups of women playfully showering each other with colored powders and liquids.

Subject & Meaning

Radha, a figure from Hindu mythology and consort of the god Krishna, is prominently featured in the left group. The scene captures the joy and exuberance of the festival, with women throwing red and orange powders and spraying saffron-colored liquid at each other.

Technique & Style

The painting's use of color is notable, with hues derived from natural sources such as the 'tesu' tree and turmeric. The artist's representation of the scene is characterized by a vivid depiction of the celebrants and their activities.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known