Krishna and Balarama
About this artwork
In Hindu tradition, Krishna and Balarama are brothers. Krishna means ‘black’ or ‘dark one’ in Sanskrit, terms which refer to his complexion, and he is often shown as blue or black in colour. Balarama is normally depicted as being fair-skinned and traditionally wears blue garments. Krishna’s identifying attributes include a flute and peacock feathers, and although this image features peacocks on both sides of the work, the blue colour of the figure on the left and the fact he is holding a flute can identify him as Krishna. Roy has used the earthy colours and stylised shapes of Indian folk art.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Jamini Roy (1887 - 1972) Indian
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title:Krishna and Balarama
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date created:1930s
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materials:Gouache on paper
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measurements:38.0 x 66.2 cm (framed: 59.0 x 84.3 x 2.8 cm)
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object type:
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credit line:Presented by Mary Tara Marshall 2003
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accession number:GMA 4696
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gallery:
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subject:
Jamini Roy
Jamini Roy
Born in Beliatore, West Bengal, Roy studied at the Calcutta College of Art. His early works were in a western, academic style, and he was particularly influenced by Post Impressionism. However, from 1925, Roy turned to traditional Bengali art for inspiration, adopting the style of folk painters or...