INDIA, KARNATAKA, 16TH CENTURY

Details

A Brass Group with Sleeping Vishnu
India, Karnataka, 16th Century
Depicting Vishnu in repose on the multi-headed serpent Ananta over a waisted plinth, holding his attributes of a discus and conch with the four-faced Brahma emanating from his navel and accompanied by his two consorts, Lakshmi and Sarasvati, the tiered base incised with swimming fish, scrolling waves and lotus petals
5½ in. (14 cm.) high

Special notice

This lot is offered subject to a reserve, which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold.

Lot Essay

The scene represents the creation of the universe. Vishnu lies on the coils of the giant multi-headed serpent, Ananta, who drifts endlessly on the eternal cosmic sea. As Vishnu sleeps, he envisions the cosmos into reality.

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