Here, Krishna, as flute-playing Venugopala, is seated with his consort, Rukmini, on his left thigh. Both are seated on a rectangular throne.

In South India, Rukmini and Satyabhama are Krishna’s consorts. When Krishna is shown with one consort, it is always Rukmini. As this piece is from  Karnataka, South India, Krishna’s consort is identified as Rukmini. In North India, Krishna’s consort is always Radha.

There is some damage to the piece, bronze loss and Krishna’s missing left hand. The ritual worship has resulted in some wear. It remains beautiful.

This form is rare, and I have yet to see another piece like this.

It is about 10.5 cms in height, and it is from Karnataka, South India. It is dated to the 16th century.