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The Boy Krishna holding a stolen butterball and dancing
The Boy Krishna holding a stolen butterball and dancing

The Boy Krishna holding a stolen butterball and dancing

Place of OriginSouthern India
Dateperhaps 1600-1700
MaterialsBronze
DimensionsH. 7 1/2 in x W. 4 in x D. 3 1/4 in, H. 19.0 cm x W. 10.2 cm x D. 8.3 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60B192
DepartmentSouth Asian Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
On view
LocationGallery 5
More Information

A mischievous young Krishna often dances in impish glee, stealing not only treats but also the adoring affections of all who encounter him. The small bronze sculpture depicts the moment Krishna is caught stealing tasty butter by a young neighbor woman in their cowherd village. To pardon himself, Krishna dances for the woman.

She experiences the profound love for this child and for the divine that he embodies that is the core of Krishna worship, or self surrendering devotion (bhakti).

Subject
  • Krishna
  • dance