The Loves of Krishna in Indian Painting and Poetry

The venerated sage and hero of Hinduism's most popular book, the Bhagavad Gita, is also a legendary lover. Krishna's relations with gopis (cow-herding maidens) represent the love between God and the human soul. This symbolic relationship is a prominent motif of Indian art and literature, and The Loves of Krishna in Indian Painting and Poetry provides an illustrated guide to understanding and appreciating the deity's supreme role in Indian religion and art.

The first book in English to provide a full and clear introduction to the imagery and verse related to one of the most significant of Indian gods, this volume was written by a former keeper of the Indian section of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. His depiction of Krishna's life and deeds traces the god's many aspects, from warrior to cowherd to prince. Thirty-nine pages of illustrations follow, each accompanied by commentary. The author identifies the source of each painting and discusses its inspiration and symbolism, revealing a wealth of subtle and poetic detail in every peacock feather and lotus blossom.