A Krishna shrine
This is a remarkable complete rendering of altar-shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, avatar of Vishnu, together with its officiating priest (pujari) and lay worshipper. Both men are named by inscription: Baliram, the priest, is distinguished by the sacred thread over his shoulder; Jangu, the worshipper, wears a white loincloth (dhoti ) and shawl and holds prayer-beads. The naming of the sponsor of the ritual and his family priest is a clear indication that the lay worshipper commissioned this painting in celebration of the worship ritual (puja) being performed. The painter’s skill is reserved for the individualized portraits of the two participants, which appear to be character studies from life.
Artwork Details
- Title: A Krishna shrine
- Date: ca. 1740
- Culture: India, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
- Medium: Opaque watercolor on paper
- Dimensions: Image: 24 in. × 17 1/2 in. (61 × 44.5 cm)
Framed: 29 1/8 in. × 21 7/8 in. × 3/4 in. (74 × 55.6 × 1.9 cm) - Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Howard Hodgkin Collection, Purchase, Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, by exchange, 2022
- Object Number: 2022.251
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Northern India, Guler, Himachal Pradesh
ca. 1740
Nainsukh
ca. 1760–65
Manaku
ca. 1725
India (Punjab Hills, Chamba)
18th century
India, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba
ca. 1740–50
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