Radha's confusion - Lot 120

Radha's confusion Pigments and gold on paper India, Pahari, kangra or Guler circa 1840 Sight size 25 x 17.5 cm Dressed in bright yellow pants, Krishna, recognizable by his complexion and sumptuous finery, sits on his bed and extends his arm towards his beloved, warning her of danger. Radha, realizing that day was dawning, had hastily left the bed, their love being clandestine. In her haste, she inadvertently took with her the yellow cloth belonging to her lover. Krishna called out to her, urging her to return it so as not to risk revealing their secret love. The painting's various elements allow the viewer to situate the scene in the early morning, symbolized by the peacock perched on the terrace. The scene takes place in a refined palatial setting overlooking a landscape of verdant hills. Several versions of this scene are known, including two paintings of similar composition and subject published in BN. GOSWANY and E. FISCHER (2009) Pahari masters, court painters of northern India, Niyogi books, New Delhi, p.358, fig. 155-156. Expert: Mr Alexis Renard