Who painted Pichvai of Shri Nathji?

Pichvai of Shri Nathji was painted by Unknown in 1838.

Where can I see Pichvai of Shri Nathji?

Pichvai of Shri Nathji is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Pichvai of Shri Nathji?

Pichvai of Shri Nathji is associated with Mughal Painting.

Artwork

Pichvai of Shri Nathji

Unknown , 1838

Pichvai of Shri Nathji is an unspecified painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting is a pichvai, a devotional cloth used in Hindu worship, specifically in the Pushti Marg sect.

Accession no.: 1937.454
Credit line: Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund

About this work

Overview

This painting is a pichvai, a devotional cloth used in Hindu worship, specifically in the Pushti Marg sect. It is a large textile hanging featuring a central figure surrounded by scenes and motifs.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is Krishna as Shri Nathji, lifting a mountain with one finger. Milkmaids dance around him, arms linked, conveying a state of ecstasy. The scene represents the divine play (lila) with Krishna, a key religious theme for Pushti Marg followers.

Technique & Style

The pichvai is a painted cloth, originally brightly colored but now softly faded due to long-term exposure and wear. The central scene is framed by episodes from Krishna's life and a border of adoring cows.

Context

Pichvais like this one are used in temples, hung behind Krishna's statue, and are subject to wear from smoke and touch, making each mark a testament to devotion.