Tanjore Fluting Krishna Painting with Narrative Panels – Traditional 24 Karat Gold Work

Krishna stands at the center in a lively, frontal pose, flute raised, set beneath a stylised tree within an oval frame that draws immediate focus. His form is compact yet animated: ornamented with layered jewellery and textiles that are heightened through gold work, giving the figure a raised, luminous presence against the dark ground.

Executed in the Tanjore technique, the painting combines a three-dimensional feel and gold leaf application, creating a surface that is both tactile and reflective.

Encircling the central image are narrative panels set within arched frames. To the left: Krishna as the butter thief, Krishna with Yashoda, and Vatapatrashayi Krishna reclining on the banyan leaf. To the right: Krishna with the gopis, with Satyabhama and Rukmini, and adorning Radha. The oval center is anchored by four kirtimukha motifs, acting as protective and framing devices.

The composition brings together multiple episodes into a single, cohesive visual field, where the central image anchors the surrounding narratives without fragmentation. Each panel contributes to a continuous reading of Krishna’s presence across contexts: playful, intimate, and divine, forming a complete aesthetic vision of his lilas.