Artwork
Vishnu on Ananta, the Endless Serpent
Vishnu on Ananta, the Endless Serpent is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2018.155
- Credit line
- Purchase and partial gift from the Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection; Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts a pivotal moment in Hindu cosmology, illustrating the deity Vishnu reclining on the serpent Ananta amidst a primordial ocean, on the cusp of creation.
Subject & Meaning
The scene portrays Vishnu’s pre-creative slumber, awakened by Lakshmi, leading to the emergence of a lotus from his navel, symbolizing the inception of the world through Brahma. Ananta, meaning 'endless', embodies the serpent’s role in upholding the universe during Vishnu’s dreamlike state.
Technique & Style
Against a deep brown, basket-weave patterned background, bold, pink lotus flowers are dispersed. Vishnu is rendered with blue skin, contrasting with the serene, dark sea and the coiled form of Ananta, characteristic of the region’s artistic distinctiveness.
History & Provenance
Originating from a small Himalayan foothills kingdom, this work reflects the local, patron-driven artistry typical of the region, where artists often remained unnamed, working under royal patronage rather than for urban markets.
Context
This piece is contextualized within the Pahari region’s artistic tradition, known for its quiet, vibrant depictions of mythological themes, inviting comparison with other works from this locale for stylistic and thematic parallels.
Artist & collection
