Vintage Ravi Varma Press “Krishna Janma” Chromolithograph – Birth of Krishna, Framed Print, Bombay

Framed vintage chromolithograph of Krishna Janma (the birth of Krishna), printed by the Ravi Varma Press Picture Depot, Bombay. It shows the infant Krishna in a jewelled hanging cradle, with the lettering "कृष्ण जन्म" in the margin. It comes in its original aged wooden frame.

This is a vintage Indian oleograph/chromolithograph from the celebrated Ravi Varma Press, Bombay, which brought devotional and mythological imagery into homes across India. The imprint at the foot reads “Ravi Varma Press Picture Depot”, with the title "कृष्ण जन्म" (Krishna Janma) and “Bombay”.

The scene shows the infant Krishna with a blue-green complexion, wearing flower garlands and lying in a golden hanging cradle (palna). A crowned woman, traditionally Yashoda, gently steadies the cradle. Two attendants stand behind it, one holding a decorative fan and the other with hands folded in prayer. The print has a draped canopy with a gold-and-red patterned border above, and a floral red band below. The rich colours, flowing sarees and detailed jewellery are typical of the press’s work.

It comes framed in its original dark wooden frame, which carries visible age wear that suits a piece of this period. It would suit a puja room, a heritage-themed interior, a Krishna Janmashtami display, or a collection of Indian calendar art and lithographs.

Technical Details

• Artist/Publisher: Ravi Varma Press, Bombay (as indicated by the bottom inscription).

• Era: Early to mid-20th Century.

• Medium: Oleograph / Chromolithograph on paper.

• Framing: Housed in its original, distressed wooden frame with ornate floral carvings and a glass front.

• Condition: There is natural age-related patination, with minor foxing and wear consistent with its historical nature, adding to its authentic vintage appeal.