Artwork Details

Title
Cosmic Vishnu (Vishvarupa)
Dimensions
19 3/8 × 14 1/2 × 4 3/4 in.
Medium
Clay
Origin
Nepal
Classification(s)
sculpture
Date
17th - 18th century
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Object number
C2003.12.3
HAR Number
65214
Published references
  • Rob Linrothe and Jeff Watt, Demonic Divine: Himalayan Art and Beyond (Rubin Museum of Art; Serindia Publications, 2004), 240-241, 297, 309, cat. no. 60.

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Devotion

Concepts

A virtuous feeling and deep respect toward an authentic teaching, teacher, or path. Buddhists believe that expansive study, analysis, and meditation are essential steps for cultivating a healthy and enduring devotion.

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Hindu Gods and Goddesses

Figure Type

Hindu gods (deva) are thought to be manifestations of the absolute, or Brahman. The goddesses (devi) are considered manifestations of the Great Mother Goddess (Mahadevi), who is seen as the counterpart to Brahman.

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Nepalese Regions

Region

The Himalayan kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were significant centers of Buddhist culture. Nepalese kings, Buddhist institutions, and ordinary people patronized the vibrant art guilds. The artistic traditions of the regions are well-known in Tibetan areas and beyond, and Newar artists have always been in high demand throughout Tibetan regions and Inner Asia.

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Discover artworks, articles, and more by typing a search term above, selecting a term below, or exploring common concepts in Himalayan art.