Krishna Swallowing the Forest Fire

This painting illustrates an episode from the Bhagavata Purana, when Krishna rescues the gopis (cowgirls) and the cows from a forest fire. This is one of the popular exploits of Krishna illustrated by the painters of various schools of miniature painting. Forest fires were a constant hazard during those times and hence the care and concern for forest life has been underlined in this myth of Krishna.

The burning summer heat is suggested by the typical lacquer red background of the Mewar painting while the forest is symbolized by just one tree in the centre. Krishna is seated cross-legged on the tree swallowing the golden fire which has surrounded everybody. Four pairs of gopis standing around the tree have covered their eyes with their hands unable to withstand the brightness of the fire while the bewildered cows look around helplessly. Even in distress, the gopis look elegant. The placement of the cattle and the gopis with the central figure of Krishna on the tree, provide a rhythmic pattern to the composition of this painting.

COLLECTION: Indian Miniature Paintings

OBJECT TYPE: Miniature Painting

MATERIAL: Opaque watercolour on paper

SCHOOLS/CULTURE/PERIOD: Mewar

DATE: 1670 CE

LOCATION: Rajasthan

DIMENSION: Full page : 41.5 x 27 cms Painting: 38.6 x 24.6 cms