The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of April 18, 2024

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

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

c. 1890
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.)
Location: not on view

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.
  • ?-2003
    William E. Ward [1922-2004], Solon, OH, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art
    2003-
    The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
  • Indian Kalighat Paintings. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (May 1-September 18, 2011).
  • {{cite web|title=Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album|url=false|author=|year=c. 1890|access-date=18 April 2024|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/2003.113.a