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

c. 1890 · Gum tempera, graphite, and ink on paper

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.

About this work

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.

Cleveland Museum of Art’s own description
Credit lineKrishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album, c. 1890. Eastern India, Bengal, Kolkata, Kalighat. Gum tempera, graphite, and ink on paper; 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.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward, 2003.113.a
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