Artwork

Krishna Steals the Clothes of the Cowgirls (Gopis) (recto), from a Kalighat album

Krishna Steals the Clothes of the Cowgirls (Gopis) (recto), from a Kalighat album is an unspecified painting by the Bengal School artist Unknown. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting depicts a scene from Hindu mythology, taken from a Kalighat album.

Accession no.: 2003.114.a
Credit line: Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward

About this work

Overview

This painting depicts a scene from Hindu mythology, taken from a Kalighat album. It shows Krishna stealing the clothes of bathing cowgirls, known as gopis.

Subject & Meaning

The image illustrates a story from the Bhagavata Purana, where Krishna refuses to return the gopis' clothes until they emerge from the Yamuna River and bow to him. The scene represents a playful yet devotional encounter between Krishna and the gopis.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold lines and flat colors, the painting's style is reminiscent of comic strips. The use of vibrant colors and simple forms is typical of Kalighat art, a tradition known for its bright and uncomplicated visual language.

History & Provenance

The painting originates from Kalighat, a neighborhood in Kolkata where artists produced affordable, colorful images for pilgrims. Kalighat art is known for its accessibility and popularity among devotees.

Context

The story depicted is rooted in Hindu mythology, specifically the Bhagavata Purana, and represents a significant episode in the mythology surrounding Krishna and the gopis.