Calcutta Art Studio Lithograph
Region / Date
Kolkata (Calcutta), West Bengal, India
ca. 1878–1883
From the folio “Fifteen Hindu Pictures”
Key Features
This tender and intimate lithograph captures the sacred bond between Krishna in his infant form as Gopal, and his foster mother Yashoda-a relationship celebrated in Bhakti tradition as the highest expression of unconditional love.
Depicted as Bala-Krishna, the child-god crawls playfully on the ground, his luminous presence accentuated by a soft halo. His gaze turns upward toward Yashoda, who lovingly entices him with a ball of butter (makhan)-a reference to Krishna’s beloved childhood pastime as the mischievous makhan-chor (butter thief). In this moment, the butter becomes a symbol of pure devotion, offered by the devotee and joyfully received by the Divine.
Krishna is adorned with delicate ornaments and a peacock-feathered headband, signifying his divine identity even in infancy. His small form radiates both innocence and cosmic significance, embodying the paradox of the Divine as both child and supreme protector-Gopala, the guardian of all beings.
Yashoda, draped in richly colored garments with gold borders, stands in gentle grace, her posture reflecting maternal affection and quiet authority. Her expression captures a universal emotion-the love of a mother for her child, elevated here into a sacred ideal.
Interestingly, the setting departs from the rural simplicity of Vrindavan, where Krishna was raised. Instead, the scene unfolds within a palatial interior, adorned with Indo-Islamic architectural elements-arched corridors, carved pillars, and draped textiles. This stylistic choice reflects the visual culture of 19th-century Calcutta, where devotional narratives were reimagined through refined, courtly aesthetics.
The composition beautifully balances intimacy and grandeur-transforming a simple domestic moment into a universal symbol of bhakti (devotion). The relationship between Yashoda and Krishna becomes an allegory: just as she loves and nurtures him, so too does the devotee cherish and seek closeness with the Divine.
Museum-Grade Poster Details
Size: 18 × 24 inches
Paper: 350 GSM archival matte paper
Print Quality: High-resolution reproduction preserving lithographic texture and watercolor tones
Finish: Non-glare museum matte finish
Ideal For: Homes, nurseries, devotional spaces, and lovers of Krishna bhakti art
Why You’ll Love It
A heartwarming and spiritually rich depiction of Krishna’s childhood-perfect for evoking love, innocence, and divine connection.
Order Now
Bring home the sweetness of Yashoda & Gopal, a timeless celebration of love between the Divine and the devotee.
Available in 18 × 24 inches, with framed and unframed options, exclusively at The Soma Store.
