
Collection Online as of February 7, 2023
Gum tempera on paper
Overall: 24.5 x 17.2 cm (9 5/8 x 6 3/4 in.)
Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward 2001.162
not on view
This painted depiction of the black stone sculpture regarded by followers of the Pushti Marg sect as Shri Nathji, a living embodiment of Krishna, includes all the elements carved into the monolithic stele behind the figure. Snakes, beasts, and yogis occupy a wild, rocky landscape. Priests have dressed the figure in light garments, indicative of a hot season, and applied a turban, jewelry, and eyes, which look down upon devotees who would be worshiping at his feet.
This painting probably stood on a domestic shrine for daily devotions and served as a memento of a pilgrimage to Nathdwara.