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Vishnu

7th–8th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This spectacular icon was excavated from a man-made mound upon which substantial sanctuaries devoted to the cult of Vishnu were built, undoubtedly under elite patronage. The sanctuaries were made of fired brick, with sandstone and granite moldings, doorjambs, columns, pillar bases, and altar platforms. Excavations have revealed that both stone and wood images were employed in worship, and there is evidence of the use of temple jewelry for dressing the icons. The Dong Thap Vishnu represents an important moment in the progression from frame-supported icons to fully freestanding representations.

cat. no. 59

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Vishnu
  • Date: 7th–8th century
  • Culture: Southern Vietnam
  • Medium: Sandstone
  • Dimensions: H.( incl. tenon) approx. 58 11/16 (149 cm); W. 19 11/16 in. (50 cm); D. 9 13/16 in. (25 cm);
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by Dong Thap Province Museum, Cao Lanh, Vietnam
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art