Vishnu or Prahalada, Son of Hiranyakashipu
This mask depicting a handsome crowned male is likely intended to represent Vishnu himself, though he does not normally feature directly in the temple dramas, as Narasimha serves as his ferocious manifestation. Nonetheless, Vishnu’s presence is understood; he presides over the performance while not directly participating in it. Alternatively, this mask may be intended to represent Prahalada, the devotee for whom Vishnu interceded as the man-lion savior.
Artwork Details
- Title: Vishnu or Prahalada, Son of Hiranyakashipu
- Date: ca. 1700–1750
- Culture: Southern India, Tamil Nadu, probably Thanjavur district
- Medium: Wood with cloth and polychrome
- Dimensions: H. 17 3/4 in. (45.1 cm); W. 9 7/8 in. (25.1 cm); D. 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift and The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation Fund, 2015
- Object Number: 2015.255.4a–c
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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Southern India, Tamil Nadu, probably Thanjavur district
ca. 1700–1750
India (Tamil Nadu)
late 17th–early 18th century
India, Deccan, Aurangabad (?)
late 18th century
Southern India, Tamil Nadu, probably Thanjavur district
ca. 1700–1750
Southern India, Tamil Nadu, probably Thanjavur district
ca. 1700–1750
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