The Art of Bangladesh

The National Gallery has two sculptures depicting Vishnu, which are quite similar in their symbolism and representation of the human form. Only one of the pieces was available for inclusion here. The strong stylistic ties between the pieces show the traditions of Hindu which were obviously regarded as being most important.

1. Title: Vishnu with attendants
Date:8th-14th century
As an image designed to be the focus of worship, this piece holds key symbols which have particular meaning for followers of the Hindu religion. It incorporates one of the fundamental aspects of Hindu worship, which maintains that eye contact should be held between Vishnu and the devotee. It also articulates Vishnu's divine status by depicting him with many arms, each carrying symbolic objects or making symbolic gestures which point the viewer toward the divine in Hindu practise. Vishnu is flanked by the goddesses Lakshmi (his consort) and Sarasvati (the goddess of learning), with smaller figures depicted along the top and bottom of the piece. Vishnu occupies the central position in the piece and stands higher than his attendents, indicating his status within the divine realm.

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