Three-headed Vishnu

anonymous, anonymous, c. 750 - c. 825

Vishnu is represented here with two extra heads, that of a lion and that of a boar. Originally he also had four arms. This manifestation of the Hindu god was especially popular in Kashmir between the 8th and 10th centuries. The tripartite crown and muscular upper body are among the characteristics of sculpture from Kashmir.

  • Artwork typefigure, sculpture, Visjnoe
  • Object numberAK-RAK-1990-3
  • Dimensionsheight 64 cm x width 31 cm x depth 14 cm, 31.6 kg
  • Physical characteristicssoapstone

Identification

  • Title(s)

    Three-headed Vishnu

  • Object type

  • Object number

    AK-RAK-1990-3

  • Description

    Visnu met drie hoofden. Uitgevoerd in groene speksteen.

Creation

  • Creation

    • anonymous, Jammu
    • anonymous, Kasjmir

  • Dating

    c. 750 - c. 825

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Material and technique

  • Physical description

    soapstone

  • Dimensions

    • height 64 cm x width 31 cm x depth 14 cm
    • 31.6 kg

This work is about

  • Subject

Acquisition and rights

Documentation

    • D.M.; Sander, L. Srinivasan, Visvarupa Vyuha Avatara ; Reappraisals based on an inscribed bronze from the Northwest dated to the 5yh century A.D., uit: East and west : quarterly review, 47, 1997, 1-4, pagina 105-170
    • A.T. Gail, On the Symbolism of Three- and Four-Faced Vishnu Images : A Reconsideration of Evidence, uit: Artibus Asiae, 44, 1983, 4, pagina 297-307

Persistent URL

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