Krishna Quells the Serpent Kaliya, c. 1890. Eastern India, Bengal, Kolkata, Kalighat. Watercolor, graphite, and ink on paper; secondary support: x cm (18 15/16 x 11 11/16 in.); painting only: x cm (18 x 10 15/16 in.). The serpent Kaliya was poisoning the water of the Yamuna River near the residence of the cowherding community, where Krishna spent his youth. The animals were dying of the toxins. Krishna wrestled the mighty serpent then emerged from the water to dance on his head. Pleading with Krishna to set him free, Kaliya’s wives are shown like mermaids.

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Size: 2802px × 3400px
Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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