Krishna and Radha with a Sakhi

Date1670-80

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