Artwork
Krishna Lifts Mount Govardhan, from a Bhagavata Purana
Krishna Lifts Mount Govardhan, from a Bhagavata Purana is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1694 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting, titled Krishna Lifts Mount Govardhan, illustrates a pivotal narrative from the Bhagavata Purana.
About this work
Overview
The composition employs a vibrant palette and detailed figural representations to convey the story's dramatic and devotional aspects.
This painting, titled Krishna Lifts Mount Govardhan, illustrates a pivotal narrative from the Bhagavata Purana. The artwork is structured into three distinct, brightly colored scenes that unfold the mythical event. It depicts the divine intervention of Krishna to protect the inhabitants of Vrindavan from the wrath of the god Indra.
The composition employs a vibrant palette and detailed figural representations to convey the story's dramatic and devotional aspects.
Subject & Meaning
The central theme recounts Krishna's miraculous act of lifting Mount Govardhan. Angered by the villagers' devotion to the mountain rather than himself, Indra unleashed torrential rains. The painting likely shows Indra, possibly on his white elephant, in the upper register, while the lower right scene depicts the community sheltering from the storm.
The middle section, with figures and grazing cows, may represent the pastoral life Krishna protected, emphasizing his role as a divine protector of both people and nature.
Technique & Style
The painting employs a tripartite division to narrate the sequence of events, utilizing a striking visual language. Bright red serves as a prominent background, complemented by vivid green trees and a yellow border that frames the composition. Figures are rendered with intricate details, adorned in patterned garments and gold jewelry, particularly noticeable in the tranquil middle scene. This decorative approach, combined with the bold color scheme, enhances the narrative's dramatic and devotional impact.
Artist & collection
Krishna Exacts a Toll from the Milkmaids: Dana-Lila, from a Bhagavata Purana
The Infant Krishna Spirited Away by Vasudev, page from the Dispersed Bhagavatapurana manuscript
Scenes from Boyhood of Krishna
Krishna Playing the Flute and other Episodes from the Bhagavata Purana
Legend of Durga
Narada
Tantric Manuscript "Sangrahani Sutra"
Gujari ragini
Rukmini
