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This exceptional white granite stele from medieval India, dated to the 12th-13th century, depicts the Hindu god Vishnu. The stone has a remarkably fine grain, giving it a marble-like appearance, though it is confirmed to be granite upon closer inspection. The style is reminiscent of the Chandella dynasty art from the ancient capital of Khajuraho, which boasted 85 temples, 25 of which still remain.
​The sculpture portrays Vishnu standing, holding his attributes in his four hands: the conch and the chakra (wheel), symbols of his divine power. The style, iconography, and late presence of the Kalkin avatar suggest it was created during the decline of the Chandella dynasty. The popularity of Vishnu among Chandella kings is noted, as the deity represents the preserver of the universe, a role aligned with the king's duty.
​The stele is rich in iconography. At the top, flanking a seated representation of Surya Narayana (a syncretic deity of Vishnu and Surya), are two of Vishnu's most popular avatars from the Chandella period: the boar (Varaha) and the lion-man (Narasimha). On the sides at elbow height are other avatars, including Kalkin, the future incarnation who will triumph over chaos. At shoulder height, smaller figures of Brahma (right) and a heavily eroded Shiva (left) are present, emphasizing Vishnu's primacy within the Hindu trinity. A halo behind Vishnu's head further alludes to his solar form.
​At the base, the earth goddess Prthivi is seated on a Kurma (turtle), which is the second avatar of Vishnu. She holds a vase of the immortality liquor obtained from the churning of the ocean of milk, a key Hindu myth. The stele is large, measuring 77 cm in height, 39 cm in length, and 16 cm in width. The piece has a documented provenance, having passed through several notable collections and an appraisal by the Portier firm. Vishnu's depiction here emphasizes his role as the protector and preserver of cosmic order.
​Vishnu's Avatars
​Vishnu has ten main incarnations, or avatars, some of which are depicted on this stele. They are:
​Matsya (the fish)
​Kurma (the turtle)
​Varaha (the boar)
​Nrsimha (the lion-man)
​Vamana (the dwarf)
​Parasurama (Rama with an axe)
​Rama (the king)
​Krsna (the dark one)
​Balarama (brother of Krsna)
​Kalkin (the future incarnation)

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