Krishna and Radha with a Sakhi
Date1670-80
Maker
Indian
Label TextThis painting highlights the architectural setting in which the relationship of Krishna and Radha unfolds, under the light of a crescent moon. The luxurious surroundings include plush carpets and a flowering lotus pond. Radha turns not toward her lover but speaks instead to another woman, a companion called a Sakhi, emphasizing the bonds of female kinship. In Rasikapriya devotional poetry, the Sakhi bridges conditions for the human and divine, the erotic and sacred. As Radha’s confidant and advisor, she is potentially also competition for Krishna’s affections and a source for jealousy.
Object number62.91
Photo CreditPhoto: Elizabeth Mann
Exhibition HistoryBellevue, Washington, Bellevue Art Museum, "Courtyard, Bazaar, Temple: Traditions of Textile Expressions in India" June 11 - July 25, 1982 (6/11/1982 - 7/25/1982)
Gainesville, Florida, University Of Florida, University Gallery, "Miniatures and Small Sculptures from India" (1966)Credit LineEugene Fuller Memorial Collection
Dimensions12 x 7 1/8 in. (30.48 x 18.1 cm)
Overall h.: 20 in.
Overall w.: 15 in.
MediumPaint on paper
Mukhlis and Madhva Khurd
ca. 1570
Object number: 68.160
Indian
1525-1550
Object number: 62.90
Object number: 2020.17.10
Indian
late 16th century
Object number: 46.28