Standing Vishnu
Culture
Indian
Date900s–1000s
Creation PlaceAsia
MediumBeige sandstone
Dimensions50.2 x 33.7 cm (19 3/4 x 13 1/4 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineAlexander H. Bullock Fund
Terms
Object number1999.3
Label TextVishnu is one of the members of the Hindu Trimurti. He represents preservation, maintaining cosmic stability. Here, this sandstone sculpture shows Vishnu in the center, surrounded by celestial figures and mythological creatures. He is depicted with four arms, each carrying an attribute distinct to his identity. For example, in his upper left hand, Vishnu holds Sudarshana Chakra, his discus that he uses to conquer demons and other evil forces. Another weapon the god uses for this purpose is a mace (gada) shown here in his upper right hand. Vishnu also carries a conch shell, shown in this sculpture in his lower left hand. Typically, the deity also holds a lotus flower, but here, his lower right hand forms the varadamudra or “gesture of charity”. His iconic lotus takes the form of the halo surrounding his head, with the light emanating in the form of petals. At the center of Vishnu’s chest is one of the fourteen divine jewels (ratnas) known as Kaustubha. It represents pure consciousness, and its power is so brilliant, only Vishnu is able to handle it.
Flanking Vishnu's crown are the Hindu gods Shiva, on Vishnu's left, carrying his iconic trident, and Braham on Vishnu's right, with three heads. The remainer of the sculpture is filled with celestial figures and sardulas, leonine creatures.ProvenancePeter Marks Gallery, NYOn View
On view
