Artwork
Krishna
Krishna is a paint painting by the Contemporary Abstract artist Bagla Devi. It dates from 1973 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Krishna is a 1973 painting on paper by Devi Bagla, exemplifying the Madhubani style from northern Bihar.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the young Krishna dancing with four gopis, dressed in vibrant striped saris and veils, conveying a lively and joyful scene.
Technique & Style
Rendered in ink and colored pigments, the work features bold outlines, simple shapes, and intricate patterns, characteristic of Madhubani painting.
History & Provenance
Madhubani painting traditionally depicted fertility motifs and deities; the shift to paper in the 1960s allowed artists like Bagla to expand the tradition.
Context
Originating from the Mithila region, Madhubani painting gained wider recognition in the mid-20th century, evolving while maintaining its distinctive visual language.
Artist & collection
Artist
Bagla Devi painted vivid devotional scenes on cloth, often focused on Hindu gods like Krishna.
