The image of Krishna as Venugopala is a much familiar Hindu image. In this manifestation he stands with his legs crossed at the ankles, kissing out rhythmic melodies from the flute held at his lips. This icon has inspired generations of poets and artists who continue to create a rich plethora of images of extraordinary rhetorical and visual richness.
Some scholars speculate that the idea of a fluting Krishna derives from that of the lonely shepherd (go-pal) who plays his bamboo flute (venu) while tending his flock. While other cowherders of Vrindavana hold a shepherd's staff, Krishna's staff is also his flute. He, however, does not play upon it to indulge the cows, but to charm the gopis (cowherdesses). Metaphorically, he is, of course, the supreme being, the great soul (param-atma), into which the individual soul (jiva-atma) represented by the gopis, will merge, drawn by the enchanting music of his flute. He is thus the great ocean into which all rivers will eventually lose their individual identities.
Of Related Interest:
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Paintings on Krishna
Krishna in Jewelry
Krishna in Textiles
Books on Krishna
Iconographic Perception of Krishna's Image
Playing with Krishna - God as Child in Art and Mythology
Krishna the Divine Lover in Indian Art
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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