Chore Bagan Art Studio Lithograph
Region / Date
Kolkata (Calcutta), West Bengal, India
ca. 1885–1895
Key Features
This dramatic and iconic lithograph captures one of the most celebrated episodes from the Bhagavata Purana-the divine victory of Krishna over the venomous serpent king Kaliya.
At the center, Krishna stands effortlessly upon the many-hooded serpent, his posture graceful yet commanding. In a remarkable artistic interpretation, he is shown playing the flute while dancing atop Kaliya—transforming a moment of battle into a cosmic dance of balance and harmony. His serene expression contrasts with the violent turmoil beneath, symbolizing mastery over chaos.
The story unfolds in the sacred waters of the Yamuna River, which had been poisoned by Kaliya’s presence. When the cowherd community of Vrindavan suffers, the young Krishna dives into the river, confronts the serpent, and subdues him through divine शक्ति (power) and लीला (play).
Surrounding the central scene are the naginis-the serpent’s wives-rising from the waters with folded hands in anjali mudra. Their expressions are filled with surrender and devotion, pleading for mercy. This moment marks the transformation of violence into compassion: Krishna spares Kaliya, granting him liberation and commanding him to leave the sacred river.
The composition is rich with symbolic contrasts-turbulent waters against Krishna’s calm stance, danger against grace, fear against devotion. The mountainous backdrop, though not geographically accurate, enhances the mythic grandeur, reflecting the theatrical, Victorian-influenced style of Bengal lithography.
Krishna’s adornments—his yellow dhoti, floral garlands, and the iconic peacock feathers—anchor the image in his पहचान as the divine cowherd, while also symbolizing joy, प्रकृति, and divine rhythm.
This artwork is not merely a tale of victory-it is a profound allegory of purification, surrender, and the triumph of dharma over poison and ego.
Museum-Grade Poster Details
Size: 18 × 24 inches
Paper: 350 GSM archival matte paper
Print Quality: High-resolution reproduction preserving lithographic detailing and vibrant hand-colored tones
Finish: Non-glare museum matte finish
Ideal For: Devotional spaces, Krishna bhakti followers, and collectors of iconic mythological art
Why You’ll Love It
A timeless depiction of Krishna’s शक्ति and compassion—where even a defeated foe is granted grace and liberation.
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Bring home Krishna Subduing Kaliya, a powerful symbol of divine balance, protection, and transformation.
Available in 18 × 24 inches, with framed and unframed options, exclusively at The Soma Store.