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Head of Vishnu
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
When complete, this iconic image of the Hindu god Vishnu would have been impressive in scale, approximately life-size. During the Gupta period (c. 319–550 CE), images of Vishnu included a lion head in the center of the crown. The lion communicated royal authority, solar radiance, and the concept of glory. These attributes characterize the power and personality of this deity who ensures the preservation of his creation.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineHead of Vishnu, 300s CE. Central India, Madhya Pradesh, Vidisha. Sandstone; overall: 40.6 x 38.1 cm (16 x 15 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, John L. Severance Fund, 1969.57
