An illustration from the Bhagavata Purana: The worship of Mount Govardhan, India, Malwa, late 18th/early 19th century

gouache heightened with gold on paper, inscribed at top, red borders

A note on the reverse states that the painting was 'Purchased with the help of Martin Lerner 1975 – curator at the Metropolitan Museum'.

In generally good condition, some flaking and losses to the paint, minor stains and some creases, the reverse with inscription, as viewed.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This scene shows the episode from the chapter twenty-four of the Bhagavata Purana in which the cowherds, at the Krishna’s suggestion, pay homage to Mount Govardhan instead of Indra, circumambulating the mountain and making offerings of food. This apparent insult rouses Indra’s wrath, and he summons storms to flood the land, but Krishna then lifts Mount Govardhan and uses it like a giant umbrella to protect his people. The style of the painting shows a mixture of traditional aspects of Malwa painting established in the seventeenth century, such as the rock-forms and vegetation of Mount Govardhan, with elements influenced by Rajasthani painting, especially the Mewar schools of the late eigtheenth century, such as the figure types and facial characteristics.