Krishna as a cowherd playing the flute

The Hindu deity Krishna is depicted here in his most common representation as a handsome young cowherd, playing the flute and drawing village women away from their fathers and husbands. Krishna’s youthful flirtation and pranks are interpreted as symbolizing the joyful interplay between the divine and the human soul.

Carved wooden figural groups such as this one were probably used to ornament large chariots taken on procession through the streets on festival days.