Antique Brass Krishna as Venugopala
Style
Odishan metalwork, depicting Krishna as Venugopala, the divine cowherd and flute-player. Krishna stands in the graceful tribhanga posture, with both arms raised in the act of playing the flute. His serene face features downcast eyes and a gentle, enigmatic smile. The tall, tiered conical headdress is crowned by a bud finial, while large circular earrings frame the face. The bare torso is adorned with armlets, bracelets and a finely worked chain girdle above the dhoti. He stands upon a separately cast lotus pedestal with a tiered, lappet-carved base.
Period
18th Century, Odisha, Eastern India. The sculpture reflects the distinctive devotional metalwork tradition of Odisha, particularly the expressive and dynamic imagery associated with Vaishnava and Bhakti traditions. Images of Venugopala celebrate Krishna's divine music and its symbolic call to the devotee.
Material
Cast brass with a warm honey-gold patina, soft brown undertones and areas of age-related oxidation, consistent with prolonged ritual use and veneration.
Size
Height: 20.5 cm (8 in.)
Provenance
Private french collection
Condition
Good overall antique condition. Expected surface wear, minor casting imperfections and age-appropriate patination consistent with an approximately 300-year-old devotional object. The figure is solidly cast and stable. The original flute attribute is absent.