Ancient Pattachitra paintings – Krishna & Gopis - India - 19th - early 20th century

Ancient traditional Indian folk art painting in the Pattachitra style, not a modern mass-produced souvenir.

Depicted is a classical, spiritual scene from Hindu mythology: the blue-skinned God Krishna plays his flute, surrounded by the dancing and musical Gopis, cowherd girls. The scene is rich in fine details—from the almond-shaped eyes in profile to the ornate patterns of the traditional garments and the magnificent floral frame.

The painting was crafted according to centuries-old tradition. The support is handmade cotton fabric, prepared with a layer of chalk and tamarind seed adhesive. It was painted with natural pigments. The back is sealed with a protective red earth layer—as befits original pieces.

The age of the painting is honestly evident. The color layer displays across the entire image a beautiful, fine network of craquelure. In some places there are minor, age-related color flakings and wear (see detail photos), which give the artwork an incredibly charming, antique character. I estimate the age to be the 19th century.

The Pattachitra painting measures 32 cm in length and 24 cm in width.

The painting is housed in a simple frame for protection; the glass has a dent in one corner that is not visible in the frame. The frame with a gold edge measures 40 x 30 cm.