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Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album

c. 1890
Gum tempera, graphite, and ink on paper
Secondary Support: 48.1 x 29.7 cm (18 15/16 x 11 11/16 in.); Painting only: 25.4 x 20.4 cm (10 x 8 1/16 in.)
Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward 2003.113.a
Location: not on view
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Description

Krishna’s cowgirl (gopi) Radha was Ayanaghosha’s wife, and her devotion to him transcended marital ties. Whenever Radha was together with Krishna and her husband appeared, Krishna instantly transformed himself into Kali and Radha into her devotee. Radha, a model devotee, symbolizes the human soul and its longing for god. Her willingness to break the rules of duty (dharma) exemplifies her devotion.
Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album

Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album

c. 1890

Eastern India, Bengal, Kolkata, Kalighat

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