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माखन चोर Krishna as Makhan Chor (the Butter Thief) c. 1750 - c. 1800

Opaque watercolour including gold-and silver-coloured metallic pigments on paper. | 43.1 x 29.1 cm (folio dimensions) | RCIN 1005113.n

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  • f.12

    A depiction of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. According to Hindu belief, Krishna came to earth as the embodiment of love and compassion.

    Krishna is shown carrying off one of the mischievous pranks which earned him the name makhan chor (butter thief). Yashoda, his foster mother, and two milk maids berate him for stealing butter. The makhan chor stories emphasize the Hindu concept of lila, playing for the sake of fun rather than for competition or advantage.

    For further information on this album see RCIN 1005113.

    Provenance

    Presented to King Edward VII when Prince of Wales during his tour of India in 1875 by Mangaldas Nathubhoy.

  • Creator(s)
  • Medium and techniques

    Opaque watercolour including gold-and silver-coloured metallic pigments on paper.

    Measurements

    43.1 x 29.1 cm (folio dimensions)

    Image: 7.8 x 5.65 cm (image)

  • Category
  • Place of Production

    India