As the vertical axis supporting the cosmos, Vishnu is most often represented as standing in an upright taut posture. Here his feet rest upon an upturned lotus, which in turn is placed upon a square lotus pedestal.
Vishnu is adorned with a towering crown known in iconographical texts as the 'Kiritamukuta.' This is literally and metaphorically the highest of all crowns. The shape is that of a rather conical cylinder, similar to a mitre, ending in a knot or point. When worn by a deity, this signifies that he has a rank among the highest of all gods.
The facial expression is benevolent and the eyes gentle - befitting attributes for Vishnu, since he is believed to be the preserver of the cosmic order. The sharp nose grants a handsome demeanour to the face. The lips are lightly compressed, with the lower one being slightly thicker than the upper one.
Sumptuously bejewelled, Vishnu has four arms that carry the wheel, the conch shell, and the club. The extended right hand has a lotus inscribed on the palm and displays the Abhaya mudra - the gesture which grants the boon of fearlessness. Thus Vishnu describes himself in an ancient text: "The world rests as the lotus in the palm of my hand, the cosmos revolves around my finger like a discus. I blow the music of life through my conch and wield my mace to protect all creatures."
The skill of the sculptor is evident in the deft treatment of the folds of the short dhoti which clings to his thighs and ends well above the knees. Ornamented waistbands hold this lower drape together and a number of elaborately decorated tassels can be seen falling between Vishnu's legs. The upper part of his anatomy is bare save for the rich array of jewels.
Vishnu is straight as a post, for he is the firm center, and the axis of the universe; he is the sturdy pillar that joins the earth to the heavens. Indeed to his devotees, a formal, hieratic representation of Vishnu - their refuge and protector - standing like a mighty pillar, is a deeply comforting sight.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
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