Description

Vishnu is one of the most important gods in the Hindu pantheon and, along with Brahma and Shiva, is considered a member of the holy trinity (Trimurti) of Hinduism. He is the most important god of Vaishnavism, the largest Hindu sect.Vishnu is the Preserver and guardian of people (Narayana), he protects the order of things (dharma) and, when necessary, he appears on earth in various incarnations or avatars to fight demons and fierce creatures and so maintain cosmic harmony. Four-armed figure of Vishnu standing on double lotus pedestal. In his upper right hand, he holds a chakra, in the lower right a lotus, in the upper left a conch, the lower left hand, which is missing, held the gada. He is profusely ornamented and wears a conical jewelled crown on the head, earrings, necklace of pearl strings, yajnopavita, armlets, bangles, anklets, and a vanamala. The lower garment up to the knees is held at the waist by an ornamented band. The figure carved in a decorative niche is flanked on either side by a standing female deity, with two female chauri-bearers above. On both sides of his head are Brahma and Siva seated cross-legged on double-lotuses. A kirtimukha is on top with a pair of flying celestials at the extreme ends. Below the lower right hand of Vishnu, on the pedestal, Garuda is kneeling down with hands clasped in devotion. Floral motifs with kneeling devotees are on either side on the pedestal in front.