NEPAL, XIVEME SIECLE

This rare gilt-bronze figure, displaying the androgynous Vishnu and Lakshmi, symbolizes the non-duality of the divine principle. As is customary with these androgynous images, its right half represents Vishnu while the left half depicts Lakshmi. They are clearly differently depicted with a slightly broader hip and prominent breast for Lakshmi but also by hairstyle, ornaments and even garments. The latter is falling on Lakshmi from her side to her ankle while Vishnu's stops around the knee. The figure can safely be placed in the fourteenth century if comparing it with other bronzes from this period. During this time the wheel attribute is placed in his upper hand instead of the club. Furthermore their broad face is typical for examples from the 14th century like the slightly stockier and broader shoulder and rather solid limbs.