Antique bronze Krishna statue with flute, India, 19th century

Estimated market value: €350 – €550

Standing statue of a deity, crafted from bronze, depicting Krishna in the Tribhanga posture, playing the flute. The statue stands on a lotus pedestal and shows Krishna with crossed legs, holding the flute to his lips with both hands. This iconography is characteristic of Krishna as a shepherd god and a musical manifestation of divine love and devotion.

The face is finely modeled with a gentle smile and almond-shaped eyes. The head features a high crown with a decorative element, combined with a halo at the back. The body is richly decorated with jewelry and a pleated dhoti. Remnants of old gilding are visible over large parts of the surface, combined with a dark natural patina consistent with age and use.

The back and underside show a traditional hollow-cast construction with an irregular interior and mineral discoloration, characteristic of older bronze casting techniques. There are no indications of modern serial production. Based on style, execution, and finish, the statue can be placed within a South Asian tradition, presumably India, dating to the 19th to early 20th century.

Material: bronze  
Height: 25.7 cm  
Width: 8 cm  
Weight: 1.2 kg  
Condition: original condition with age patina and wear