Collection Online as of May 24, 2022

Krishna Quells the Serpent Kaliya

c. 1890

Part of a set. See all set records

Eastern India, Bengal, Kolkata, Kalighat

Watercolor, graphite, and ink on paper

Secondary Support: 48.1 x 29.7 cm (18 15/16 x 11 11/16 in.); Painting only: 45.7 x 27.8 cm (18 x 10 15/16 in.)

Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward 2003.113.b

Location

not on view

Fun Fact

Kaliya is one of the few foes whom Krishna did not kill, but permitted him to relocate to an island in the ocean.

Description

The serpent Kaliya was poisoning the water of the Yamuna River near the residence of the cowherding community, where Krishna spent his youth. The animals were dying of the toxins. Krishna wrestled the mighty serpent then emerged from the water to dance on his head. Pleading with Krishna to set him free, Kaliya’s wives are shown like mermaids.

Provenance

?-2003

William E. Ward [1922-2004], Solon, OH, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art

2003-

The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH

Exhibition history

Cleveland Museum of Art, (5/1/11-9/18/11); "Indian Kalighat Paintings"

Indian Kalighat Paintings. The Cleveland Museum of Art (organizer) (May 1-September 18, 2011).

Life and Exploits of Krishna in Indian Paintings (Indian art rotation). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (September 1, 2021-February 6, 2022).