We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Birth of Krishna's brother, Balarama

circa 1830s

Artists

Unknown Artist

Alternate image of Birth of Krishna's brother, Balarama by

  • Details

    Other Title
    illustration to the Bhagavata Purana
    Place where the work was made
    Himachal Pradesh → India
    Cultural origin
    Kangra or Guler
    Date
    circa 1830s
    Media category
    Painting
    Materials used
    ink and watercolour on wove paper
    Dimensions
    26.3 x 30.2 cm
    Credit
    Gift of Dr Jim Masselos 2022
    Location
    Not on display
    Accession number
    41.2022
    Copyright

    Reproduction requests

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  • About

    According to Hindu mythology, the god Krishna was born a prince, but a prophecy foretold that his uncle Kamsa, the demon king of Mathura, would be challenged by a nephew. Kamsa then ordered the deaths of all of his sister’s sons. Six babies were killed but the seventh, Balarama the brother of Krishna was miraculously saved.

  • Bibliography

    Referenced in 1 publication

  • Provenance

    Jim Masselos, Oct 1986-2022, Sydney/New South Wales/Australia, donated to the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, April 2022.

    Maggs Bros. Ltd., Oct 1986, London/England, offered for sale, cat no. 103.