Art Funded by you

Standing Figure of Vishnu

Unknown artist, 400–500

In this fragmentary image the god Vishnu, Preserver and Protector of the Universe, is represented as a youthful and physically powerful princely figure with long curling hair. He wears a high, ornate crown formed with rosettes linked by looped swags, as well as heavy earrings, a necklace, a thick garland swathed round the upper arms, and a lower garment tied at the waist. His nimbus and two additional arms proclaim his divine nature. The four hands and the distinguishing attributes which they held are now missing. This iconography of Vishnu had developed during the Kushan period in the early centuries AD. As with other Hindu and Buddhist icons, it came to full expressive maturity in the great age of the Guptas, which saw an unrivalled flowering of the arts in India.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Standing Figure of Vishnu, 400–500

Date supported

1996

Medium and material

Sandstone

Dimensions

51 cm

Grant

5000

Total cost

27000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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