Head of Vishnu
Unknown Artist
400s CE
Medium
sandstone
Dimensions
h. 28 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Edward L. Whittemore Fund
Accession Number
1942.498
About this artwork
During this period in India, the Hindu god Vishnu wears a distinctive squarish crown with a central medallion featuring a lion head. With strings of pearls issuing from his mouth, the imagery conveys the idea of radiance and glory. Devotees recognized Vishnu as having solar and royal attributes. His coiled ringlets of hair and heavy earrings also indicate that he was meant to have the appearance of a royal warrior.