Pichvai of Shri Nathji1825–50 · Study 1937.454

Context from the museum

Painted-cloth devotional wall hangings ( pichvai ) form the backdrop to the worship of Krishna as Shri Nathji. As a result of long-term exposure, these textiles are usually faded and worn. The icon of Krishna as Shri Nathji is the central figure. On either side of him, milkmaids with arms entwined join him in a state of ecstasy. Experiencing the bliss of divine play ( lila ) with Krishna is the main religious goal for followers of the Pushti Marg sect of Hinduism to which this work belongs. Episodes from the life of Krishna and a border of adoring cows frame the central scene.

Museum description reproduced from its CC0 open-access record. Read the original catalog entry.

Read the dimensions before the image

The selected overall measurement for Pichvai of Shri Nathji is 169.5 cm wide and 257 cm high, equivalent to approximately 66.7 × 101.2 inches. Dividing width by height gives a format ratio of 0.66:1. The rectangular bounding area is 4.36 square meters; it describes the measured footprint, not the amount of paint or the monetary value.

On an illustrative 300 cm wall, the recorded width occupies 56.5% of the span before adding a frame. A centered placement leaves approximately 65.3 cm on each side before adding a frame. These are calculations by Physical Art For Crypto using museum measurements. They are not the museum’s display recommendations.

Questions to bring to your own collection

With Pichvai of Shri Nathji in view, identify one feature you can point to, then distinguish what the museum records from your personal response. Keep its medium, Gum tempera, silver, and gold on cotton, in your notes when comparing contemporary works.

• Which part of this vertical composition catches your eye first?
• Would a 169.5 cm width still suit the space after allowing for furniture and a frame?
• What surface detail would you need to see in person or in a close photograph?