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KRISHNA REVEALS A VISION OF NARAKA TO ARJUNA: A FOLIO FROM THE MAHABHARATA
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 USD
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Description
- KRISHNA REVEALS A VISION OF NARAKA TO ARJUNA: A FOLIO FROM THE MAHABHARATA
- Opaque watercolor heightened with gold on paper
- image: 5 3/4 by 9 in. (12.7 by 23 cm)
- folio: 8 1/2 by 11 1/2 in. (20.3 by 28 cm)
In this extremely finely executed depiction, Krishna and Arjuna sit on a green hillside deep in conversation. Krishna dressed in a saffron jama (robe) and golden crown, on a carpet against a red gold-flecked bolster. Arjuna seated in deep respect, with palms pressed and attentively listening - dressed in armor for battle, with his great bow slung over his shoulder. Krishna reminds Arjuna that he has a choice, but with consequences. His duty is to face battle whether desired or not.
Krishna holds one hand out before him with palm open - the other hand held back with closed fist. He presents Arjuna with a fearsome vision of Naraka (Hell) reserved for those who forsake their duty - to test his devotion. Shaivite rishis and sages meditate near their hermitages. The four chariot horses of Krishna stand ready to depart with them for battle. Against a serene bright blue sky, as white puffs of clouds pass above. The painting executed with great clarity, depicting an iconographically complex subject.
With black inner margins with mauve/pink outer borders with purple ruled lines.
Krishna holds one hand out before him with palm open - the other hand held back with closed fist. He presents Arjuna with a fearsome vision of Naraka (Hell) reserved for those who forsake their duty - to test his devotion. Shaivite rishis and sages meditate near their hermitages. The four chariot horses of Krishna stand ready to depart with them for battle. Against a serene bright blue sky, as white puffs of clouds pass above. The painting executed with great clarity, depicting an iconographically complex subject.
With black inner margins with mauve/pink outer borders with purple ruled lines.
Provenance
Acquired circa 1986
Condition
Very minor stains otherwise in very good condition. Verso: Minor stains with old label affixed. Black ink inscription. Conservation framed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.