Artwork
Krishna Fluting
Krishna Fluting is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1694 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The flute functions iconographically as a symbol of spiritual call and cosmic harmony, while Krishna’s presence conveys benevolence and playful guidance.
The work titled Krishna Fluting portrays the Hindu god Krishna holding a flute, an attribute that signifies his role as a divine musician and lover. The flute functions iconographically as a symbol of spiritual call and cosmic harmony, while Krishna’s presence conveys benevolence and playful guidance. Rendered as a painting in 1687 and housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art, the piece belongs to a tradition of devotional art from that era.
Its subject matter references Krishna’s pastoral role and the concept of lila, or divine play, expressing themes of devotion, love, and the transcendental connection between the mortal and the divine.
History & Provenance
The work titled Krishna Fluting was created in 1687 and is classified as a painting. It is attributed to an unknown artist, as indicated by its entry in the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection (accession 2018.157). The piece depicts the Hindu deity Krishna holding a flute and has been part of the museum’s holdings since at least its cataloguing in 2018.
No further details about commissioning or prior owners are recorded; the available provenance traces the work from its creation in the late 17th century to its current ownership by the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Krishna Fluting is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art in Cleveland, Ohio. Its accession number is 2018.157, as recorded in the museum’s catalog. The work, dating to 1687, is classified as a painting depicting the Hindu deity Krishna with a flute.
The museum’s records do not list any exhibition history for the piece, indicating that it has not been included in publicly documented exhibitions to date.
Overview
This painting portrays the Hindu deity Krishna, recognizable by his blue skin, yellow crown, and flowing orange garment, as he plays his flute. The central figure is accompanied by two cows and an additional human figure, all set against a striking red background framed by a yellow border. The composition captures a dynamic moment, drawing the viewer's attention to Krishna's musical performance.
Technique & Style
The painting features a vibrant color scheme, with a prominent red background that contrasts with the blue of Krishna's skin and the yellow of his crown. Figures are delineated with clear forms and bold hues, contributing to the work's overall visual energy. A distinct yellow border encloses the central image, a common stylistic element in traditional Indian painting that helps define the pictorial space and enhance the composition's impact.
Artist & collection
Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana visit the hermitage of the sage Bharadvaja at Prayaga, from Chapter 48 of the Ayodhya Kanda (Book of Ayodhya) of a Ramayana (Rama’s Journey)
Untitled
Untitled
The Sentiment of Peace: Sama Rasa, from a Rasikapriya
A Lady with Attendant and a Pair of Deer: Probably Gujari Ragini of Dipak, from a Pahari Ragamala
Krishna's Fifth and Sixth Avatars, page from a copy of the Gitagovinda of Jayaveda
Gunakali ragini
Krishna and Balarama Touching the Feet of Vasudeva and Devaki
Radha and Krishna
