Vishnu Reclining on Serpent Ananta, India, Punjab Hills, early 19th century, Watercolour and gold on paper, On loan from the Royal Ontario Museum, 2009.10.29

Vishnu Reclining on Serpent Ananta, India, Punjab Hills, early 19th century, Watercolour and gold on paper, On loan from the Royal Ontario Museum, 2009.10.29

The entire cycle of creation and destruction is captured in this image of the Hindu deity Vishnu in his role as preserver and renewer. As one age ends, Vishnu swallows up the universe and turns it into a formless ocean; reclining on the mighty serpent Ananta, he starts the process of creation anew in the form of Brahma, who rises from the central lotus flower to begin the next age. Vishnu’s devoted spouse Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, love, and beauty, massages his feet at right.

Royal Ontario Museum

early 19th century

Photographer credit: Courtesy of the Royal Ontario Museum

Royal Ontario Museum

Dimensions: Frame dimensions: H 12 1/2" x L 15 1/2" x D 1 1/4"

Materials: Watercolour and gold on paper

ROM 2009.10.29

India, Punjab Hills