1888 - 1890

About the Artwork

Raja Ravi Varma’s Yashoda Krishna is a heartwarming depiction of the divine bond between the infant Krishna and his foster mother, Yashoda. Rooted in Indian mythology, this artwork captures an intimate moment that celebrates love, devotion, and maternal affection.

In the painting, Yashoda cradles baby Krishna lovingly, her face radiating tenderness and devotion. Krishna, adorned with ornaments and a peacock feather on his crown, is portrayed with a mischievous charm, embodying both innocence and divinity. The scene is set in a traditional Indian household, with details such as the draped sarees, jewelry, and earthen pot highlighting Ravi Varma’s mastery in combining realism with Indian aesthetics.

This particular moment is inspired by the Bhagavata Purana, where Yashoda’s motherly love for Krishna transcends her understanding of his divine identity. Despite being the incarnation of Vishnu, Krishna is shown here as a playful child, a portrayal that humanizes the deity and makes him relatable to devotees.

The painting’s emotional depth and vibrant details showcase Ravi Varma’s ability to narrate mythological tales through his art. It continues to resonate as a symbol of unconditional love and devotion, cherished in Indian households and culture.

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Did You Know

Did you know that Raja Ravi Varma skillfully blended European realism with Indian mythology in Yashoda Krishna? His ability to portray intricate human emotions through Western techniques while staying true to Indian traditions made this painting universally appealing.
Did you know that Yashoda Krishna was sold for an astounding Rs 38 crore in February 2023? This auction not only set a record for Ravi Varma’s works but also underscored the timeless appeal and value of Indian mythological art.
Did you know that Yashoda Krishna was once part of the private collection of Fritz Schleicher, a German national? It was acquired directly from the Ravi Varma Press, adding a fascinating chapter to the painting’s storied history.

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