Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Nainsukh in ca. 1780.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Romanticism.

Untitled by Nainsukh (ca. 1780) · Meaning & Museum

About this work

Subject & Meaning

Created in 1780 in India, the work illustrates a narrative moment in which the three figures interact within a single composition.

This painting depicts a scene from Hindu mythology featuring the deity Krishna, a woman, and a snake. Created in 1780 in India, the work illustrates a narrative moment in which the three figures interact within a single composition. The inclusion of Krishna alongside a serpent and a female figure aligns with traditional iconographic themes from the deity's life stories, such as his subduing of dangerous creatures or his encounters with the gopis. The imagery reflects the religious and cultural milieu of the Pahari school of painting.

Technique & Style

Created in India around 1780, this work is executed in ink and wash on paper. Attributed to a follower of the Pahari master Nainsukh, the painting measures 26.4 by 22.9 cm. The composition depicts a mythological scene featuring Krishna, a woman, and a snake. The fluid application of ink and wash on the paper support defines its visual character, in keeping with traditional techniques used for mythological subjects in the region during this period.

History & Provenance

The untitled painting, executed in ink and wash on paper in 1780 in India, portrays Krishna alongside a snake and a woman, motifs drawn from Hindu mythological narratives. It is attributed to a follower of the Pahari artist Nainsukh. The work is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, as part of the museum's Indian painting holdings, and measures 26.4 by 22.9 cm. The available sources do not provide a specific accession number, nor do they list any past exhibitions or loan history.

Overview

This untitled work by Nainsukh, created around 1780, is an ink and wash painting on paper. It presents a scene from Hindu mythology, featuring the deity Krishna alongside a woman and a serpent. The composition captures a moment of interaction between these figures, characteristic of the artist's narrative approach.

Context

This painting originates from a small kingdom nestled within the Himalayan foothills, a region known for its vibrant artistic traditions. Nainsukh, the artist, was employed by local royal patrons who held a particular affinity for narratives centered on Krishna, the divine and often mischievous deity. Such commissions fostered a rich visual culture depicting these beloved stories.