Artwork
Story of Krishna and Radha
Story of Krishna and Radha is an unspecified painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.
About this work
Overview
The work titled “Story of Krishna and Radha” is a painted composition executed on a rectangular sheet of aged paper. The support exhibits a light brown, yellowed tone, a rough texture and a subtle border, suggesting extensive handling. A faint handwritten annotation at the bottom reads “The Sorrows of Radha,” while illegible ink marks appear in the upper left corner.
Subject & Meaning
The title indicates a narrative focus on the mythic relationship between the Hindu deity Krishna and his consort Radha, a theme traditionally associated with divine love and spiritual longing. The marginal note referencing Radha’s sorrows hints that the image may explore the emotional dimension of their separation or yearning.
Technique & Style
The piece is rendered on paper using paint, though the specific medium, watercolor, gouache, or tempera, is not discernible from the description. The surface bears numerous small dots and marks, suggesting a sketch-like approach or a preparatory study rather than a finished, polished surface.
History & Provenance
The sheet’s weathered appearance and the presence of handwritten annotations imply that it has been handled and possibly studied over time. No information is provided about the artist, date of creation, or prior ownership, leaving its provenance largely unknown.
Context
Depictions of Krishna and Radha have a long history in Indian art, appearing in miniature paintings, murals, and devotional illustrations. This work aligns with that tradition by focusing on the emotional narrative, a common motif in Bhakti literature and visual culture.
Artist & collection
![A Duck and a Stag [verso], by Paul Lacroix](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/paul-lacroix--a-duck-and-a-stag-verso--2ab27b114277d625-w320.webp)
