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This high qualityhigh-quality bronze ensemble depicts a classic triad of South Indian Vaishnavite iconography. Standing in the center is the god Vishnu, flanked by his two consorts (wives): Sridevi (incarnation of fortune and prosperity) and Bhudevi (the Earth goddess).

 

The god is represented standing in strict frontality (samabhanga). He has four arms (chaturbhuja). His two upper hands wield his traditional cosmic attributes encircled by stylized flames: the disc (sudarshana chakra) in his right, and the conch (panchajanya shankha) in his left. His lower right hand makes the gesture of protection (abhaya mudra) or granting boons (varada mudra), while his lower left hand rests on his hip (katyavalambita mudra) or feigns resting on his mace (gada), here suggested. He is crowned with a tall, cylindrical, mitre-like crown (kirita mukuta). His generous proportions and the stylized rendering of the jewelry (necklaces, armlets or keyura) reflect a folk-inspired yet codified 18th-century aesthetic.

 

  • Sridevi (to Vishnu's right): Identifiable by her posture, symmetrical to that of her counterpart. She typically holds a lotus bud (padma) in her inner hand, while her other arm falls gracefully alongside her body (lola hasta).

 

  • Bhudevi (to Vishnu's left): Depicted similarly, holding a blue water lily bud (utpala) in her inner hand to mirror Sridevi.

 

Both wear the conical bun-shaped crown (karanda mukuta) typical of South Indian goddesses. Each deity stands on a circular base shaped like an inverted lotus (padmapitha), which is itself set upon a square plinth.

 

A work of remarkable quality in the refinement of its details.

 

Condition: Very good overall condition given its age. A fine patina of use, smooth and aged through ritual anointings (abhisheka) associated with household or small temple worship. The soft wear on the high reliefs confirms the antiquity of the pieces and the continuous devotion they received.

IN161

SKU: IN161
€1,700.00Price
  • Divine Triad

    : Vishnu flanked by his two wives, Sridevi (Lakshmi) and Bhudevi

    South India

    18th century (Late Nayak or early Maratha period)

    Copper alloy (lost-wax cast bronze)

    Height of central deity: 15 cm

    Good condition

     

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