Lot 113
South Asia, India, Possibly Bengal or Orissa, ca. 13th century CE. A magnificent and architecturally scaled terracotta relief depicting Anantashayana Vishnu - the cosmic form of the god Vishnu reclining upon the serpent Ananta (also known as Shesha), attended by his consort Lakshmi. Modeled in three adjoining panels, this masterwork embodies the grand narrative of divine repose at the threshold of creation, a theme deeply embedded in Hindu cosmology and temple iconography. Rendered in high relief, the panels together capture the reclining figure of Vishnu, his body stretched across the undulating coils of the serpent, whose multiple hoods once rose protectively above the gods head. His right arm is bent to cradle his head in repose, while the left extends gracefully along his flank. The rhythmic contouring of the torso and the delicately articulated jewelry express both serenity and divine authority. Size of largest (middle fragment): 6" L x 18.8" W x 22.2" H (15.2 cm x 47.8 cm x 56.4 cm); 28.3" H (71.9 cm) on included custom stand.
At Vishnus feet sits the goddess Lakshmi, massaging his legs in a gesture of devotion, embodying the eternal harmony between the preserver and his consort. The refined modeling of the limbs, the elaborate ornamentation, and the crisp delineation of the drapery folds suggest production by a regional atelier of the eastern Ganga period, a time of great artistic vigor in Bengal and Orissa. Such reliefs would have adorned the exterior or interior walls of a temple, often forming part of a narrative frieze depicting Vishnus avatars and cosmic functions.
Despite its fragmentation into three sections, the sculpture retains remarkable coherence, allowing the viewer to envision its original grandeur. The earthy tone of the terracotta, softened by centuries of age, accentuates the sensuous curvature and meditative poise of the divine form. A monumental relic of medieval Indian art, this relief unites cosmic symbolism, architectural mastery, and devotional beauty - a testament to the enduring power of Vishnu as the preserver of universal order.
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection, acquired in May 2025; ex-Austin Auction Gallery, Austin, Texas, USA
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PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#197738
- Condition: Three fragments as shown. Professionally repaired with restorations over break lines. Losses, chips, nicks, and abrasions as shown. Stable fissures in areas. Good remaining detail and scattered earthen and mineral deposits to surface.
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