Artwork
Yasoda Holding Krishna and Radha
Yasoda Holding Krishna and Radha is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work portrays Yasoda cradling two young figures identified as Krishna and Radha.
About this work
Technique & Style
Yasoda Holding Krishna and Radha is an oil painting on canvas created in 1890 in Kolkata.
Yasoda Holding Krishna and Radha is an oil painting on canvas created in 1890 in Kolkata. The work portrays the Hindu divine couple Krishna and Radha with their mother Yasoda, rendered in a style blending European academic techniques with Indian devotional themes characteristic of late 19th-century Bengal. It is housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
The painting’s formal qualities include delicate chiaroscuro modeling of figures, precise linear drawing, and a muted palette emphasizing soft flesh tones against a dark background. Brushwork remains restrained yet expressive, particularly in the drapery folds and facial features, reflecting academic realism tempered by regional stylistic influences.
History & Provenance
Yasoda Holding Krishna and Radha is an 1890 painting created in Kolkata, depicting the Hindu deities Krishna and Radha under the care of their foster mother Yasoda. The work entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on view today. Its provenance traces from an unknown artist’s production in 1890 to acquisition by the museum, which catalogs it under the identifier 2003.125.
Overview
The work portrays Yasoda cradling two young figures identified as Krishna and Radha. All three figures are rendered in vivid hues: Yasoda in a red dress with white stripes, her long black hair topped by a green veil, and the children in matching red garments, with Krishna clutching a blue object. The backdrop is a pale blue, offering a gentle contrast that emphasizes the central group.
Subject & Meaning
The scene captures an intimate, maternal moment drawn from Hindu mythology, where Yasoda, the foster mother of Krishna, is shown with both Krishna and his beloved Radha. The composition underscores themes of devotion and affection, highlighting the nurturing bond between the caretaker and the divine children, a motif frequently explored in devotional art.
Context
While specific details about the artist, date, or provenance are not provided, the subject aligns with traditional Indian devotional iconography that often depicts Yasoda with Krishna. Such representations have been popular in both temple murals and portable paintings, serving as visual aids for worship and storytelling within Hindu practice.
Artist & collection
