The Cow and Lotus

This vibrant Pichwai painting by artist Naveen Soni depicts the sacred cow and lotus blossoms, symbolising fertility and prosperity metaphorically through fauna and flora. Pichwai is a 400-year old traditional artform from Nathdwara, Rajasthan, meant to adorn the sanctuary of Lord Shrinathji, a seven-year-old manifestation of Krishna. The cow, the beloved companion of Krishna, is a symbolic representation of motherhood, care and fertility. The body of the cow is ornamented, right from the horns to the necklaces and anklets, with saffron handprints that symbolise the presence and protection of Krishna, highlighting his role as Gopala or protector of cows. The composition also depicts lotus blossoms, symbolising prosperity, good luck and fortune. The blooming lotuses are coloured in pink tones with green tender stems and beautiful leaves, rendered with delicate brushstrokes. Set against a contemporary backdrop of geometric patterns in black and white, the painting is enclosed within a plain red and black border.