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Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu with Attendants
Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu with Attendants
Object number1983.46.7

Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu with Attendants

DateNd
Artist
CultureIndian [Southern]
MediumStone
Dimensions25 3/16 x 29 1/8 x 5 1/2 in. (64 x 74 x 14 cm)
Credit LineAnonymous gift
On View
On view
PeriodMedieval period (c. 600-c. 1200)
Classification(s)
Label TextKnown collectively as the trimurti, or three forms, the three large gods, Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu, represent three major aspects of Hindu conceptions of the divine. At left is four-faced Brahma, archetype of the universal, who holds among his attributes a long-handled implement used in offering rituals and a vase of sacred water from the Ganges River. Shiva, also known as Maheshvara, stands at center holding aloft a trident and cobra, with his attendant bull mount Nandi below. Shiva is associated with destruction, which, while devastating, allows for new beginnings to arise. Vishnu, at right, holds a conch, club, lotus, and wheel-the latter of which symbolizes the cycle of existence. Above, flying celestial beings known as gandharvas bear offerings, while the deities' attendant figures and consorts stand below.
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu