A Vintage South Indian Golu or Kolu: Naughty Krishna

mid twentieth century
4 1/2" x 4 1/2" x 2", 11.5 cm x 11.5 cm x 5 cm

This charmingly rendered and molded figure is what is called in South India a golu or kolu. As is fairly obvious this piece is distressed from time and wear and it barely retains any of its original painted decoration and details.

Golu figures--and there were many gods and goddesses depicted in the form of golu--are set out in traditional home displays in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh during the nine night Hindu festival called Navratri. 

This golu depicts Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu and one of the most popular and beloved Indian gods. He is shown here as a baby stealing butter from a large, clay pot, an act which mischievous and charming, both qualities which are lovingly ascribed to Lord Krishna.

Krishna is adored in India for many qualities, not least among them being his physical beauty and charisma and his fun-loving and teasing nature. He is known to inspire fervent, almost passionate love in those who are devoted to him.

As can be easily seen on the accompanying detail photographs, this golu of Krishna shows a good deal of wear, patina and surface damage.

This is an approachable and collectible image of this beloved god and it also is a golu with a good deal of age and charm.

A wonderful folk object.