Krishna Rajagopalaswamy, king of the cowherds 1768 - 1799

This 18th-century painting from the Tirupati School in South India depicts Krishna Rajagopalaswamy, a form of the Hindu god Krishna, as the king of the cowherds. The artwork, executed on paper with opaque pigments, shows Krishna standing majestically, adorned with elaborate jewelry and a crown, holding a lotus in one hand and a serpent in the other. He is accompanied by a smaller figure, likely representing a devotee or companion. The painting is a testament to the rich tradition of devotional art in South India, showcasing the intricate details and vibrant colors characteristic of the Tirupati style. This piece is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.