Artwork preview

Vishnu with His Consorts, Lakshmi and Sarasvati

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Gray sculpture depicting Vishnu with his consorts, Lakshmi and Sarasvati. Vishnu is standing in the center, wearing a necklace and a crown, with four arms. He has a conch shell in his upper right hand, a discus in his upper left hand, and holds a lotus in his lower right hand, while his lower left hand is in a gesture of blessing. Lakshmi and Sarasvati are standing on either side, both wearing jewelry. Lakshmi is on Vishnu's right, holding a lotus and a vessel. Sarasvati, on Vishnu's left, holds a veena. The sculpture is framed by an archway with intricate carvings of various figures and scenes. The archway is supported by two pillars, each adorned with carvings. There are several small carvings on the top and sides of the sculpture. The background is beige.

Artwork details

Date:
11th–12th century
Medium:
Black stone
Culture:
India (Bihar or West Bengal) or Bangladesh
Dimensions:
516 × 625 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette