Rare Antique Krishna Panchayatan Oleograph – Ravi Varma Press, Malavli-Lonavla

A striking and highly collectible antique Krishna Panchayatan oleograph from the historic Ravi Varma Press, Malavli-Lonavla, dating to the early 20th century.

The magnificent devotional composition depicts Lord Shri Krishna seated majestically upon an ornate royal throne, adorned with an elaborate crown, jewellery and floral garlands. He is surrounded by beautifully dressed female attendants, while ceremonial fans and a grand royal canopy emphasize his divine and regal presence. A traditional offering platter filled with fruits appears prominently in the foreground, completing the richly devotional setting.

The extraordinary combination of deep greens, vivid reds, golden yellows and Krishna's distinctive blue complexion creates the dramatic visual quality for which early Ravi Varma Press devotional prints became celebrated.

The lower margin retains the Ravi Varma Press, Malavli-Lonavla imprint, an important feature for collectors of original period Indian oleographs. The Ravi Varma Press, founded in Bombay in 1894 and later relocated to Malavli, played a landmark role in bringing mythological and devotional imagery into Indian homes through colour lithography. �

Google Arts & Culture

With its wonderfully preserved colours, period character and evocative devotional subject, Krishna Panchayatan is a superb example of early Indian popular religious art and an exceptional addition to a collection of Ravi Varma Press oleographs.

Title: Krishna Panchayatan

Press: Ravi Varma Press, Malavli-Lonavla

Period: Early 20th Century

Medium: Colour Oleograph / Lithographic Print on Paper

Size: Approx. 10 × 14 Inches

Origin: India

Presentation: Vintage framed

Subject: Lord Krishna / Hindu Devotional Art

Condition: Presented in original vintage condition with natural age-related toning, minor surface wear and marks consistent with age. The colours remain remarkably vibrant and attractive. The vintage frame also shows signs of age and use. Please refer to the photographs for the exact condition.