Lord Vishnu

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In the cosmological Trinity, Vishnu is the name given to the cohesive or centripetal tendency known as the sativa quality. While Siva is the Lord of destruction, Vishnu is the principle of preservation and can be considered a symbol of perpetual life. Vishnu here is represented as a tall, handsome youth in the attire of an ancient king. He is seen in necklaces, a bejeweled waist belt and a high royal crown. Standing on a thousand petalled lotus, he looks the emblem of divinity, what with Seshnag's hoods forming an umbrella over his head. This gigantic serpent is the infernal worlds or the patala. Seshnag is always associated with Lord Vishnu.

In the upper right hand which represents the cohesive tendency, Vishnu holds the discuss, symbol of the mind. In the lower right hand he holds the mace, symbol of primeval knowledge. In the upper left hand which represents the tendency towards dispersion and liberation, Vishnu holds the conch, symbol of the five elements. The lower left hand is in abhaya mudra.

To a traditional image, the artist has lent a very contemporary treatment. Colour wise, the whole picture is vertically divided into two. The left side uses maves and purples while the right used rusts and browns. In the center they blend in a very subtle manner that a viewer does not notice where the rust colour ends and the mauve starts. This picture is surely a visual treat!

This description by Kiranjyot

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Lord Vishnu with Lakshmi on Sheshnag (Paata Painting from Orissa)

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Sri Vishnu (Die-stamped Silver Amulet)

Lord Vishnu (Copper Sculpture Inlaid with Silver and Brass)

Lord Vishnu (Copa Doll)

The book of Vishnu (Hardcover Book)

Tales of Vishnu (Comic Book)