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Chola bronze figure of Vishnu, circa 1100, South India
Vishnu is the Hindu ‘God of Preservation’ and stands with feet
firmly planted in tadasana upon a lotus pedestal. The depiction
is one of boldness, strength and equilibrium. In the upper left
hand is held the conch shell signifying creation and protection
of the Universe, whilst the upper right holds the chakra to protect
the righteous; both of these attributes are adorned with flames to
further demonstrate the god’s radiance. The other left hand is held
in katyavilamvita signifying the easing of suffering, and the
remaining right hand makes the gesture of reassurance, abhaya
mudra.
The figure is bejewelled with earrings, necklaces, rings and
armlets, and wears the sacred cord across his chest; the mukuta
(crown) is tall and cylindrical, and a siraschakra adorns the
back of the head. Treatment of the dhoti (the lower garment)
differs from earlier bronzes - having evolved to become more
stylized in the depiction of its pleated folds. Overall, the
surface has a deep red patina and the figure is a particularly
fine example of Chola bronzes of this period.
The lotus pedestal upon which Vishnu regally stands has a square
base with carrying handles - so that the icon could be
transported in procession.
Height: 33”
Similar examples: ‘South Indian Bronzes’, Lalit Kala Akademi,
New Delhi 1981- plates 71a and 71b.
‘Chola’ Sacred Bronzes of Southern India, Royal Academy of Arts 2006 - no. 20 (pages 112-115).
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