Four-Armed God Vishnu

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

One of the principal gods of Hinduism, Vishnu is regarded as the preserver of the universe. He stands regally in this sculpture from the Gupta period, wearing a simple crown and a long garland. Originally four-armed, he would have held weapons—a mace, conch, and discus—in three hands. This early image includes a round object, variously interpreted as the earth or a fruit, in his lowered fourth hand. In later images of Vishnu, this hand typically holds a lotus.

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