Rare ritual bronze statuette cast in bronze of the god Vishnu/Lakshmi (Vishnu samabhanga) – Tamil - Solid, heavy bronze cast using the lost-wax process, with a hollow base structure at the pedestal - India - 19th century

[Sacred Art / India] Rare ritual bronze figurine of the god Vishnu / Lakshmi (Vishnu samabhanga) – Tamil Nadu Style / South India, 19th century

Superb and dense ritual figurine in lost-wax bronze caster representing the god Vishnu standing in the rigid balance pose (Samabhanga) on a polyhedral and circular pedestal with lotus petal motifs (padmapitha).

Subject & Iconography:
The four-armed deity wears the traditional high conical crown (Kiritamukuta).

The two upper hands hold the Vishnuite divine attributes: the discus chakra (Chakra) on the right and the conch (Shankha) on the left.

The lower right hand makes the gesture of assurance/benediction (Varadamudra or Abhayamudra).

It is adorned with necklaces, the sacred cord (Yajnopavita), arm rings, a fine articulated chain added around the neck, and detailed drapery at the back (the siraschakra clearly visible at the back of the head).

Technique & Material:
Solid and heavy bronze cast in the lost-wax process, hollow base structure at the pedestal level. Magnificent patina of usage: warm chocolate-brown and glossy bronze.

Origin / Style: South India (Tamil Nadu / Karnataka), post-Vijayanagara / Nayaka tradition.

Period: 19th century.

Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 14 cm
Base width: 4.5 cm
Weight: 590 g (piece particularly heavy and dense for its size)

Overall condition: Superb state of preservation and finesse of chiseling.

Patina & Wear: Remarkable dark and smooth patina achieved through handling and ritual anointing over time (Abhisheka). Presence of its original small dorsal/pectoral chain.