Untitled

Unknown

3rd century · Sandstone · Asian Art

Here, Vishnu assumes his earthly appearance (avatar) as the youthful Krishna, slaying the demon Keshi who attacks in the guise of a horse. This subject very probably has its origins in Hellenistic legends, most notably the labors of Hercules in which the Greek hero slays the horses of Diomedes. The martial prowess of this subject, in which Krishna slays the horse-demon with his bare hands, is an appropriate choice for a bodybuilder's exercise weight.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd century

Medium

Sandstone

Culture

India (Uttar Pradesh, Mathura)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Samuel Eilenberg Collection, Gift of Samuel Eilenberg, 1987