Shrinathji as bridegroom, manorath performed
by Tilkayat Govardhanlalji and other Goswamis
by Ghasiram Hardev Sharma
circa 1900 CE
Gouache on paper
20.1 x 15.4 in. (51.1 x 39.1 cm.)
In the center is Shrinathji’s sevra shringar (his bridegroom decoration) which is pronounced by his elaborate headgear and a backdrop with gopis (milk maids). Shrinathji is adorned with a chakdar jama with gold on maroon bold floral patterns and long multiple pearl strings.
Priests in the composition can be identified as: (on the left) Goswami Govardhanlalji and possibly Goswami Ramchhodlal from Kotah; and (on the right) Damodarlalji, son of Govardhanlalji, Balkrishnaji of Kankroli, Vallabhji of Shergarhwale and Jivanlalji from Kashi (Varanasi).
Along with the finesse in depiction, master artist Ghasiram was an expert on setting colour schemes. In this composition, the bright golden canopy is juxtaposed with bright toned toran (string of wall decoration). Bright colours of pichawai (backdrop) and orange outfits are balanced with neutral grey of the walls, flooring and brown border.