Krishna with Rukmini and Satyabhama - 03

This is a spirited Thanjavur reverse glass painting of Krishna with his queens Satyabhama and Rukmini. Krishna is depicted with his arms around the shoulders of both and wearing his typical yellow dhoti, held in place by a turquoise sash hugging his hips. His hair is tied in a topknot and is adorned with jewels and the characteristic peacock feather. A number of necklaces and a floral garland hang from his neck. Satyabhama and Rukmini are dressed in identical striped saris. Both hold lotuses in their hands. The scene is set in palatial surroundings with pillars and decorated floral arches. Their affection for each other is beautifully depicted by the painter with a gentle touching of each other’s toes. Krishna, the god of love and compassion, is the eighth incarnation of Vishnu, but is worshipped in his own right. He has always been one of the most popular deities in Southern India and is frequently depicted in paintings of the classical traditions.