Govardhanlalji sitting along with his children against large bolster

Govardhanlalji sitting along with his children against large bolster

by Unknown Artist
Nathdwara
circa 1890

Opaque watercolour, gold and silver on paper
13.25 x 10 in. (33.7 x 25.4 cm.)

On many festive occasions, Tilkayat Govardhanlalji’s children were dressed as Balkrishna and were part of ceremonies and processions.

They have been depicted as Balkrishna in many paintings. In this painting, the two children hold pride of place as each are seated on Govardhanlalji’s lap. The Tilkayat’s divinity is portrayed through the halo around his head whereas the children’s exalted status comes through their fine clothes, jewellery and plumed head-dress. The setting is that of a room with many chandeliers. The Tilkayat is shown sitting on a traditional mattress which is spread on a carpet with a floral pattern. The Tilkayat is resting on a bolster. This painting brings out Govardhanlalji’s love for his children.