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7. Vishnu on chariot Nepal 19th c. painted clay H. 9.25" x w. 9.75" ( 23.50 x 24.75 cm) |
This enigmatic sculpture in red clay painted with black paint shows the god Vishnu in a striding posture mounted on a chariot drawn by horses, with his vehicle Garuda leading the way on the right with a flag mounted above (the modern two-leafed flag of Nepal with the moon above and the sun below), and an attendant in armor holding an umbrella behind. The theme of the horse-drawn chariot recalls the sun-god Surya, and this may be in some way a composite figure combining both gods, and may mean to represent in some way the nation of Nepal or the Shah kings, considered emanations of Vishnu. Mounted on a modern wooden base. Detail: side Detail: back |