Cleveland Museum of Art

Head of Vishnu

Date

300s CE

Medium

sandstone

Culture

Central India, Madhya Pradesh, Vidisha

Department

Indian and Southeast Asian Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

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.

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