Who painted Krishna summoning the cows?

Krishna summoning the cows was painted by Unknown in 1785.

Where can I see Krishna summoning the cows?

Krishna summoning the cows is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Krishna summoning the cows?

Krishna summoning the cows is associated with Pahari Painting.

Artwork

Krishna summoning the cows

Unknown , 1785

Krishna summoning the cows is an unspecified painting by the Pahari Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1785 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The painting depicts a youthful figure with blue skin playing a flute, surrounded by cows that converge from all directions.

Accession no.: 1989.339
Credit line: Bequest of Mrs. Severance A. Millikin

About this work

Overview

The painting depicts a youthful figure with blue skin playing a flute, surrounded by cows that converge from all directions. Beside him stands a similarly youthful male, cloaked in white and holding a red staff, indicating his role as a companion or brother.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure represents the Hindu deity Krishna, whose blue complexion signifies divinity. The scene illustrates his legendary ability to attract cattle through the enchanting sound of his flute, emphasizing his supernatural charm and pastoral guardianship.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Pahari tradition of northern India, the work combines delicate line work with vivid coloration typical of the region’s courtly painting schools. The composition balances narrative clarity with ornamental detail, highlighting both figures and the surrounding animals.

History & Provenance

Created within the artistic milieu of the Pahari kingdoms, the painting reflects the period’s devotion to illustrating Hindu mythological episodes. It likely originated in a royal workshop that catered to patrons interested in religious storytelling through visual art.

Context

Pahari painters frequently rendered scenes from the life of Krishna, a central figure in Hindu devotion. The depiction of cows gathering at his music underscores themes of divine attraction and the harmonious relationship between the deity and the natural world.