http://collection.shangrilahawaii.org/internal/media/dispatcher/44064/fullCarved Statue of Krishna Playing the Flute20th centuryOverall: 38 3/4 x 15 x 9 1/2 in. (98.4 x 38.1 x 24.1cm)Chloritic schist, paint, gold, copper alloy41.1411This sculpture depicts Krishna, the early embodiment of the Hindu god Vishnu, playfully playing a flute. Krishna was a cowherd who grew up in the mystical forests of Vrindavan where he met with his beloved Radha. Representations of the flute-playing Krishna are called Venugopala from venu, the Sanskrit word for flute, and Gopal, an epithet for Krishna. The enchanting melodies of Krishna’s flute attract the gopis or milkmaids.Stonework38.100000000098.425000000024.13000000001646123968