Head of Vishnu
Can I see it?
Yes, on view now
Where is “Head of Vishnu” now? The Cleveland Museum of Art, 243 Indian and Southeast Asian, Cleveland. Yes, on view now. Checked September 29, 2026.
On public display.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the sculpture
When complete, this iconic image of the Hindu god Vishnu would have been impressive in scale, approximately life-size. During the Gupta period (c. 319–550 CE), images of Vishnu included a lion head in the center of the crown. The lion communicated royal authority, solar radiance, and the concept of glory. These attributes characterize the power and personality of this deity who ensures the preservation of his creation.
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Details
- Accession number
- 1969.57
In the catalog
Sources
- The Cleveland Museum of Art
- Image: The Cleveland Museum of Art — Museum open access
