Former Votive Stone Stele Representing Vishnu, Nepal, XVIIIth - XIXth Century

Origin: Nepal
Age: 18th - 19th century
Material: Hard stone
Without stand: 26.3 x 15 cm
Condition: Excellent condition, ancient traces of offerings

The piece shown here is a Vishnu figure standing on a square base resting on a lotiform pedestal. It takes place in the center of a fiery mandorle, the head haloed and crowned with a tiara. He is represented richly trimmed (bracelets, ear ornaments, necklaces, garland, belt) recalling his divine stature. His four arms each hold an attribute: a wheel (chakra), a club (gada), a conch (chanka) and a lotus (padma). A worshiper with a lion's head and hands joined in a sign of respect stands at his feet on his right. Old traces of depujas (offerings). In the Hindu religion, Vishnu is part of the Trimurti (Trinity) with Brahma and Shiva. He is one of the main gods of the pantheon and is associated with the protection, the conservation of the world.Represented usually decked out with four arms, each holding a specific attribute.