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An important piece of Hindu art, this statue could hold a central position in your Asian arwork collection

Vishu, “ The Preserver,” forms the main Hindu trinity together with Brahma, “The Creator,” and Shiva, “The Destroyer.” Vishnu is the preserver of the universe and represents mercy and goodness. He is said to be the cosmic ocean Nara meaning water which was the only thing in existence before the creation of the universe. For this reason, he is also known as Narayana or “one who moves in the waters.”

In his Narayana aspect he is represented resting or seated on a coiled serpent, Seshanag, which represents the sleeping universe.

Vishnu is represented as a dark man with four arms: in one hand he holds a conch shell (shankha) indicating spread of the of divine sound “OM”; in the second hand he holds a discus (chakra) as a reminder of the wheel of time and therefore to lead a good life; the third hand holds a mace (Gada) indicating his power and punishing capacity if discipline in life is ignored; and the fourth hands holds a lotus (Padha) which is an example of joyful existence.

He is usually dressed in yellow robes. His vehicle is the swift-flying bird called Garuda. Vishnu’s consort is Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune.