Vishnu Mandala

Vishnu Mandala
Nepal, 18th – 19th century
Copper, gold, rock crystal, pearls, garnet, turquoise, coral, amethyst
Collection of the Newark Museum. Purchase 1959 Sophronia Anderson Bequest Fund, 59.43

This gem-encrusted mandala represents an abundant universe preserved through the loving attention of the god Vishnu. A mandala, meaning “circle” or “sphere,” is a mystical diagram of the universe—a symbolic schema for the workings of the divine and a device through which devotees can focus meditation during worship. Vishnu is depicted at the center of the mandala, the heart of the infinite expanding universe. For Vaishnavas, or followers of Vishnu, he is the Creator and primary focus of the cosmos, as well as the Preserver who maintains proper order (dharma) and guarantees righteousness.

The jeweled Vishnu stands upon Garuda, a half-bird, half-man creature. At his side, his consort Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and abundance, resides on a tortoise, her mode of celestial transportation. The central couple is surrounded by a circle of kneeling adorants that alternate with images of Vishnu seated in a meditative posture. The inseparable dimensions of both cosmic and earthly realms, the ever-expansive purview of Vishnu, are represented by four inner gates and a ring of eight outer gates signifying both cardinal and intermediate directions (north, northeast, east, southeast, etc.). The outermost orbit contains eight symbols representing qualities of the divine and all enlightened individuals, interspersed by figures making gestures indicative of Vishnu’s power to bless and protect. The entire piece is inset with semi-precious stones emphasizing the spiritual and material riches made possible through the benevolence of Vishnu.

All photographs and videos have been provided by Entrepid Productions with support from Andrew Hair, Daniel King, and Garth Pratt.