Artwork
Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze, from a Bhagavata Purana
Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze, from a Bhagavata Purana is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting, titled "Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze," is an illustration from a manuscript of the Bhagavata Purana.
About this work
History & Provenance
Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze, from a Bhagavata Purana is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
The work titled 'Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze' is a painting derived from the Bhagavata Purana. It was created in 1785, as recorded in the artwork’s catalogue entry and corroborated by its inception date of 1 January 1785. The piece is attributed to an unknown artist and entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on view.
Its classification as a painting from that year reflects both the stylistic context of late 18th‑century Indian miniature traditions and the documented provenance of the museum’s acquisition.
Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze, from a Bhagavata Purana is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work is catalogued under the inventory number 1989.338, indicating its accession into the museum's holdings in 1989. The painting itself dates to 1785.
No exhibition history beyond its presence in the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection is documented in the available sources.
Overview
This painting, titled "Krishna and Balarama Taking the Cattle Out to Graze," is an illustration from a manuscript of the Bhagavata Purana. It depicts the two central figures, Krishna and Balarama, guiding livestock through a verdant landscape. The artwork is notable for its bright palette and meticulous depiction of rural life, including secondary figures engaged in daily activities. Such visual narratives served to convey spiritual and ethical lessons from the sacred text.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork portrays Krishna and Balarama, significant deities in Hindu tradition, as they lead cows to pasture. This scene underscores their pastoral upbringing and connection to the natural world. As an integral part of the Bhagavata Purana, the illustration functions beyond a mere depiction of daily life, acting as a visual sermon intended to impart spiritual teachings and moral principles to its audience through engaging narrative.
Technique & Style
The painting features a vibrant color scheme, characterized by lush green hills and trees adorned with pink blossoms, complemented by a blend of earthy and rich hues. The artist paid close attention to minute details, evident in elements such as the golden bells on the cows and the elaborate jewelry worn by the women. The composition effectively balances the primary figures with background activities, creating a dynamic and detailed portrayal of a rural setting.
Context
Originating from a manuscript of the Bhagavata Purana, this painting belongs to a tradition of illustrated Hindu scriptures that recount the life and exploits of Krishna and other divine incarnations. Illustrated versions were vital for disseminating these stories and their underlying philosophical concepts. The visual format facilitated a deeper understanding and emotional resonance with the narratives, making complex spiritual ideas accessible through compelling imagery.
Artist & collection
Sugriva challenges his brother Vali, King of the Forest Dwellers, to a duel, folio 10 from the Kishkindha Kanda (Book of Kishkindha) of a Ramayana (Rama’s Journey)
Krishna asks for sweets, from a Sursagar of Surdas (Indian, c. 1480–1580)
Krishna
Scenes from Boyhood of Krishna
Krishna as the divine cowherd.
Sambara
Cow Worship
