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Item number Eg261 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Rectangular shaped print of a dark-haired male, Krishna, playing the flute while standing, with his right leg crossed over his left. He is wearing a yellow dhoti and wrap, pink floral garland as well as gold anklets, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and nose ornament. There is a peacock feather in hair. On either side are two dark-haired females in background, one in green holding flower pink lotus, other in red holding garland. One cow licking male's heel and two calves, one beside each female; all three bovines are white. Scene occurs under leaf and bird-laden tree set in lush green landscape. Advertisement on base for 'glass merchants'.

History Of Use

Indian popular religious prints have been published for nearly a century, first by German presses, later by Indian ones. The prints may take the form of calendars, posters, or simply images. The style of the representations is European. In the beginning they were Hindu images, but are now acquiring elements both of folk art and a romantic secularism. It is a living art currently influenced by the movie industry and non-Hindu religions. The images are a vehicle for advertising and are also used for religious purposes. This print was produced, framed, and displayed in a prayer room for 'puja' or worship.

Iconographic Meaning

Krishna, eighth incarnation of Vishnu is associated with strength, vigor, and life. He is unmindful of the cares of everyday living, and subdues any evil with laughter. Can be shown as the divine child (mischievous, impulsive, spontaneous) or as the divine lover with the milkmaids. His favorite, Radha, shows her adoration for him as symbol of a worshipper's passionate devotion. He calls people to lose themselves in bliss by the sound from his flute. Also identified by: blue grey or light blue skin, peacock feather in tiara, u-shaped Vaishnavite third eye, peacock and bovine, full moon, and landscape settings reminiscent of Gopal Krishna living among the cowherds.