### **Chola bronze figure of Vishnu**


**Circa 1100, South India**

**Height: 84 cm, 33.1 inches**

Vishnu is the Hindu 'God of Preservation' and stands with feet firmly planted in tadasana upon a lotus pedestal. The depiction is one of boldness, strength and equilibrium. In the upper left hand is held the conch shell signifying creation and protection of the Universe, whilst the upper right holds the chakra to protect the righteous; both of these attributes are adorned with flames to further demonstrate the god's radiance. The other left hand is held in katyavilamvita signifying the easing of suffering, and the remaining right hand makes the gesture of reassurance, abhaya mudra.

The figure is bejewelled with earrings, necklaces, rings and armlets, and wears the sacred cord across his chest; the mukuta (crown) is tall and cylindrical, and a siraschakra adorns the back of the head. Treatment of the dhoti (the lower garment) differs from earlier bronzes - having evolved to become more stylized in the depiction of its pleated folds. Overall, the surface has a deep red patina and the figure is a particularly fine example of Chola bronzes of this period. The lotus pedestal upon which Vishnu regally stands has a square base with carrying handles - so that the icon could be transported in procession.

**Similar Examples**

_South Indian Bronzes_, Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi 1981- plates 71a and 71b.

_'Chola' Sacred Bronzes of Southern India_, Royal Academy of Arts 2006 - no. 20 (pages 112-115).