Bronze Fluting Krishna (Venugopala)

This cast bronze image of Krishna playing his flute (with the flute now missing as is usual) is known as Krishna in his Venugopala form.

The image has two pairs of arms, and the right leg is on its toes in front of the left. The two hands in front would have held the flute. The two at the rear hold a conch and a cakra wheel, these being among Krishna’s identifying attributes.

The figure is cast in typical plump form, with a tall, conical headdress and ample jewellery.

Krishna stands on a rounded dais etched with lotus petals. A small horned cow stands on either side. These are allusions to Krishna as a cow herder.

The image is without losses (other than the flute) and repairs. It has a deep, dark patina, and ample ritual prayer (puja) wear.