Picchavai of Shrinathji

The panting depicts the worship of Shrinathji, a form in which Lord Krishna is adored, being worshipped in his shrine at Nathdawara located near the fort of Kotah in Rajasthan.

Here we see Damodarji II, the principal priest at Nathdwara from 1797-1826, worshipping Shrinathji during an annakuta (mountain of food) ceremony, as evidenced by the multiple food offerings placed before the altar. The ceremony also commemorates the Sapta Swarupotsava or incorporation of all the seven major idols of Shrinathji within the main shrine at Nathadwara, which are shown around the principal deity in the painting.



Compare with another picchavai depicting the same subject illustrated in Amit Ambalal, Krishna as Shrinathji, New York and Ahmedabad, 1987, p. 66. Also see Sotheby's New York, September 19, 2008, lot 250 for a smaller painting of the same subject.

Ramayan Arts, Michigan; acquired late 1970's/early 1980's
Thence by descent

Fairly good overall condition. Light abrasions throughout image and colors faded on the borders, all clearly seen in the catalogue illustration. Some holes at the lower border. The painting is laid down on a red cloth. Framed.
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