17th century 4-armed bronze image of Vishnu. This bronze is beautifully cast and chased; the patina is rich and lustrous. The upper right hand is missing his iconic conch; the upper left hand is missing his war disc; the lower right hand is held in the position of reassurance; and the lower left hand is holding his club. The lugs at the base of the figure were used to secure the figure during processions. Vishnu is the protector and preserver. He is the ultimate deity; all things are manifest from him: "Many forms do I assume. And when the sun and the moon have disappeared, I float and swim with slow movements on the boundless expanse of the waters. I am the gander, I am the lord. I bring forth the universe from my essence and I abide in the cycle of time that dissolves it."
