Krishna is not only one of the most revered Hindu deities but also one of the most popular Hindu subjects in Indian painting. In anticipation of the celebration of his birth, known as Krishna Janmashtami, on Monday, August 26, curatorial fellow Janet O’Brien will present a rich selection of illustrated episodes from Krishna’s life—as a divine infant, playful youth, passionate lover, protector of the universe, and restorer of cosmic order. The seminar will focus on Pahari painting, an umbrella term for works created in the Himalayan foothills and Punjab plains of North India during the 18th and 19th centuries and particularly noted for depictions of Krishna.

Led by:
Janet O’Brien, Calderwood Curatorial Fellow in South Asian and Islamic Art, Division of Asian and Mediterranean Art