Important Notice

Southern India, 10th Century CE
Granite
Height: 23.5 in (59.7 cm)
Width: 11 in (27.9 cm)

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY-NON-EXPORTABLE


Vishnu is one of the Trimurti: the three supreme Gods of the Hindu pantheon - the other two being Brahma, the Creator, and Shiva, the Destroyer. Vishnu's role is that of the preserver of the universe, and he is widely worshipped across India.

Despite having been created over a millennium ago, this Chola Dynasty sculpture from Tamil Nadu retains many essential details. Vishnu assumes a Sampada pose, characterised by an erect body with feet firmly together. He is shown with four arms: one holding a shankha or conch, one with the Sudarshana Chakra or discus, one resting on his hip and the other with the palm held up to bless. The conch and discus appear to be floating above his hands, and tilt inwards. The stone appears beige - an unusual colour, as most sculptures from this region are grey granite - making it a unique and rare object, and a collector's delight.

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