Description:

Nepal, ca. 18th c. CE. A hand-carved wood frieze section / metope depicting the Hindu god Krishna playing a bansuri (or murali) flute associated with the Krishna and Radha love story, revered as Krishna's divine instrument, traditionally linked with his Rasa lila dance. Flanking Krishna are two dancing gopis (cow herding maidens), their bodies swaying in elegant S-curves. All are carved in high relief and set before a verdant landscape of lush flora, standing upon a plinth carved w/ lotus leaves. Size: 6.125" W x 11.375" H (15.6 cm x 28.9 cm); 13.375" H (34 cm) on stand

Krishna and Radha had quite a history beginning in childhood when they grew up together, playing, dancing, and hoping to spend the rest of their lives together. Unfortunately the universe pulled them apart. Krishna came to be worshipped as a lord who defended his people and vanquished his enemies, while Radha waited for him. Krishna married Rukmini and Styabhama; he raised a family and fought valiantly in the war of Ayodyha, while Radha still waited - so immense was her love for Krishna. Song writers and poets have used their torrid love as inspiration for centuries. The Radha-Krishna romance is a prominent subject of Indian art and literature, serving as a model of allegorical love to which all should aspire. Radha was Krishna's favorite of all the gopis (cow herding maidens), and their love signified rapture between God and human soul has often been interpreted as the hope for the union between humanity and the divine.

Provenance: Ex-New Jersey Collection

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#120066

  • Condition: Stable age cracks with minor losses as shown. Expected surface wear and encrustation commensurate with age.

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February 9, 2017 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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