DrawingsIndian18th century

Krishna and Radha Riding a Camel Composed of Dancers

18th century

Description

Krishna, the eighth avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu who is worshiped as a deity in his own right, kisses his consort, Radha, while about to fire an arrow. They are both seated on a camel composed of at least four female dancers. They sit on the back of one of the dancer’s, whose legs are bent upward and feet together to suggest the neck and head of the camel. One dancer supports her thighs and legs while also acting as the camel’s front legs. Two dancers support the upper portion, standing together and walking in unison to act as the camel’s hind legs. Lightly drawn in red ink are sketches of two female figures that follow behind the camel. Large palm trees flank the scene. On the right side are swirls and scribbles executed in a variety of colors. These bold lines signify the artist testing colors and strokes, as well as adjusting the amount of pigment held in their brushes. Rajput Style, Kota School.

Classification

Drawings

Medium

Ink and opaque watercolor on paper; Rajput Style, Kota School

Culture

Indian

Century

18th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Dimensions

15.2 x 11.3 cm (6 x 4 7/16 in.)

Provenance

Stuart Cary Welch (by 1973 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of temporary loan to Museum in 1973.