Central Asia, India, ca. late 17th to early 18th century CE. An attractive, cast-bronze statue of Krishna standing on an integral conical base. He stands with his feet in a dancing pose - a common depiction of the god as a young man - with his posed arms holding a flute (now missing). His sensitive face smiles contently with closed eyes as he savors the melodies he creates. He also has large, perforated ear lobes, suggesting they may have held earrings or other adornments at one point. A tiered top knot sits atop his domed head. Age has given the figure a green and brown patina. Size: 5.55" H (14.1 cm).
The story of the young Krishna playing his flute comes from the Bhagavata Purana. In this epic, Krishna plays the flute to preserve dharma while defeating demons. This particular story has inspired countless theatre and dance performances in India. Interestingly, this was also the first Purana to be translated into a European language - a French translation appeared in 1788 - and introduced Hinduism to the Western world.
Provenance: private Boulder, Colorado, USA collection; ex-Matthew Fridman collection, Fort Meyers, Florida, USA
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#130568
Condition
Age-commensurate surface wear, loss to flute, small nicks to base, body, and head, with minor oxidation in some areas. Nice green and brown patina as well as light earthen deposits throughout.