Vishnu with attendantssc
By Enter Inventive Studio
2024-09-06
As Preserver of the Universe, the Hindu god Vishnu appears in one of his many forms whenever he is needed to restore order to the world. In this image, Vishnu is depicted as the cosmic monarch. He is flanked by his consort Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity and beauty, and Sarasvati, goddess of arts and learning. Lakshmi holds a flywhisk while Sarasvati plays a stringed musical instrument. Denoting his divine status, the crowned Vishnu is represented with four arms, standing on a lotus. In his hands he holds a conch shell representing the power of creation; a mace to intimidate those who oppose the truth; and a discus, the symbol of destruction and cosmic order. His fourth hand is extended in a gesture of charity. Vishnu’s powerful eyes encourage an important aspect of Hindu image worship—darshan (seeing)—when the divinity and devotee exchange eye contact.