Here we have the protector Lord of the Universe, Vishnu sitting royally on the coils of Adishehsa. One can imagine him ruling from the Vaikuntha (his heavenly abode) in this form. Lord Vishnu’s head is flanked by the Adishehsa, a snake that represents Kaal or time. Vishnu by resting on its coils hints that he is in control of the smooth passage of time, he is the master of every occurrence. The regal Kiritamukuta adorns Vishnu’s head, its conical shape giving the god an imposing look. The U-shaped tilak on his head is an auspicious Hindu attribute. Vishnu’s face appears extremely tranquil, signaling that the lord is in a deeply introspective state. In his ears are the Makarakrit kundal (fish-shaped earrings), a quintessential Vaishnava feature. In his right upper limb, Vishnu holds his Sudarshana Chakra (discuss), which is used to destroy any evil force trying to hinder the balance of nature. The Panchajanya shankh (conch) is held in the upper left limb, an attribute symbolizing the beginning of creation, blown before the commencement of any fortunate activity. Lord Vishnu’s left-hand rests on his Kaumudaki Gada (mace) symbolizing his strength in physical or spiritual matters. The lord of all creations sits in the Lalitasana or the posture of royal ease, with his left leg placed on a newly sprouted lotus flower. The lotus symbolism has been associated with the group of divinities related to water, auspiciousness, abundance, and creation. Lotus is also a symbol of purity since it blooms in muddy water yet remains untainted. Lord Vishnu like the lotus remains invested in the matters of the world while remaining aloof. Efforts are taken by the artist to carve the folds of lord Vishnu’s dhoti, the coils, and scales on Adi Shesha’s body, the angelic visage of the Lord, which together, have brought life into this elegant brass Vishnu idol.
