South Asia, India, ca. 19th to mid-20th century CE. A beautiful and intricate hand-carved tiered wood panel depicting the Hindu god Krishna playing a bansuri (or murali) flute with his devotees and consorts under an arch. The bansuri is associated with the Krishna and Radha love story, revered as Krishna's divine instrument, and traditionally linked with his Rasa lila dance. In the register under Krishna are two dancing gopis (cow herding maidens), their bodies in motion as they dance with raised knees. All are carved in high relief and set before a verdant landscape of lush flora, standing upon a plinth carved with lotus leaves. Size: 47" H (119.4 cm)

The story of the young Krishna playing his flute comes from the Bhagavata Purana. In this epic, Krishna plays the flute to preserve dharma while defeating demons. This particular story has inspired countless theatre and dance performances in India. Interestingly, this was also the first Purana to be translated into a European language - a French translation appeared in 1788 - and introduced Hinduism to the Western world.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Richard S. Ravenal collection

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#170388

Stable fissures to wood on verso and minor fissures to frontside. Small chips and nicks to high points on edges, chip to main figures finger, right woman on lower registers also has losses to fingers. Overall great condition with nice patina.