Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10

1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Cosmic Repose on Serpent Ananta in Hindu Mythology

About the Item

Title: 1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Cosmic Repose on Serpent Ananta in Hindu Mythology Description: This serene antique print, titled Vichenou, Couché sur le Serpent Abychen (or Adysechen?), portrays the Hindu deity Vishnu in a state of cosmic rest, reclining on the multi-headed serpent Ananta (Shesha), the eternal king of nagas in Hindu mythology. Published in 1806, this artwork is a significant piece from Pierre Sonnerat's influential travelogue, "Voyage aux Indes orientales et à la Chine," which documents his explorations and cultural observations in India. Sonnerat, a French naturalist, explorer, and ethnographer, collaborated with the skilled artist Poinson to produce this detailed illustration, capturing the European fascination with Indian spirituality and cosmology during the early 19th century. The print beautifully illustrates a key moment in Hindu cosmology where Vishnu, the preserver deity of the universe, rests on Ananta between cycles of creation and dissolution, symbolizing the eternal continuity of existence. The artwork was created using copperplate engraving, a meticulous technique celebrated for its ability to render fine details, such as the intricate scales of the serpent, Vishnu's ornate jewelry, and the flowing patterns of his traditional garments. Vishnu is depicted in a tranquil pose, lying on the coiled body of Ananta, with the serpent's multiple heads forming a protective canopy above him, set against a backdrop of cosmic waters symbolizing the primordial ocean. What makes this print particularly compelling is its fusion of Hindu cosmological symbolism with European artistic interpretation, offering a unique perspective on cross-cultural exchange during the era of colonial exploration. The detailed rendering of the serpent and Vishnu's divine repose provides a profound glimpse into the symbolic richness of Hindu mythology, making this piece a valuable artifact of historical, cultural, and artistic significance from the early 19th century. Condition Report: The print shows foxing and minor yellowing around the edges. Overall, it remains in fair to good condition for its age. Framing Tips: Use an acid-free mat to prevent further aging. Select a dark wooden frame with a silver accent to complement its elegance. Opt for UV-protective glass to shield from fading, and display in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight exposure.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.23 in (28.5 cm)Width: 8.47 in (21.5 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1806
  • Condition:
    Condition Report: The print shows foxing and minor yellowing around the edges. Overall, it remains in fair to good condition for its age.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13429-481stDibs: LU3054345084862

More From This Seller

View All
1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Divine Majesty in Hindu Iconography
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Vishnu's Divine Majesty in Hindu Iconography Description: This striking antique print, titled "Vichenou, Faisant ablation," showcases the Hindu deity Vishnu i...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Parachiven's Fierce Divinity in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Parachiven's Fierce Divinity in Hindu Mythology Description: This powerful antique print, titled "Parachiven," depicts the Hindu deity Parashiva, a fierce for...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

Rare 1806 Engraving: Parasati's Fiery Divinity in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Parasati's Fiery Divinity in Hindu Mythology Description: This captivating antique print, titled "Parasati," portrays the Hindu goddess Parvati, also known as...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Vaivert, Fierce Form of Shiva in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Vaivert, Fierce Form of Shiva in Hindu Mythology Description: This striking antique print, titled "Vaïvert," depicts Vaivert, a fierce form of the Hindu deity...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Ganesha as Pollear, Wisdom Deity in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Ganesha as Pollear, Wisdom Deity in Hindu Mythology Description: This exquisite antique print, titled "Pollear," depicts the Hindu deity Ganesha, known as Pol...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

1806 Engraving: Chiven as Ardhanarishvara, Divine Union in Hindu Mythology
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: 1806 Engraving: Chiven as Ardhanarishvara, Divine Union in Hindu Mythology Description: This intriguing antique print, titled "Chiven, Moitié Homme et moitié Femme," portrays...
Category

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Materials

Paper

You May Also Like

19th Century Engraving Belisaire by Desnoyers, 1806
Located in Richmond, London
Early 19th century engraving, titled Bélisaire, after Baron François Pascal Simon Gérard's (1770 – 1837) painting Belisarius, 1797 [Getty Museum, object number 2005.10]. Engraved by ...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century French Prints

Materials

Paper

"Shepherds Reposing" George Moreland
Located in Asheville, NC
In the style of Bristish sporting prints of the 18th Century. Colored engraving after George Moreland, British 1763-1804. Silver frame, french matting.
Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier British Prints

Antique English Engraving on Architecture
By Richard Blome
Located in Alessandria, Piemonte
Antique English engraving on Architecture: rare and very interesting, especially for an Archituctural Study. I can frame it upon request. ref. ST/382.
Category

Antique Late 17th Century English Other Prints

Materials

Paper

Tosa Mitsusada Woodcut Printed 1806-1808
Located in Alpha, NJ
Dated between 1738-1806 Mitsusada Tosa Printed 1806-1808 Engraver Jihei Inoue Printer Kisaburo Hori
Category

Antique Early 1800s Japanese Prints

Materials

Paper

Original Antique Map of Sweden, Engraved by Barlow, 1806
Located in St Annes, Lancashire
Great map of Sweden Copper-plate engraving by Barlow Published by Brightly & Kinnersly, Bungay, Suffolk. 1806 Unframed.  
Category

Antique Early 1800s English Maps

Materials

Paper

Vintage Boho Rhino Engraving in Carved Frame
Located in west palm beach, FL
This vintage boho rhino engraving, set in a beautifully detailed carved frame, captures a scene of rhinoceroses in a natural landscape. The intricate black-and-gold frame with a flor...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Prints

Materials

Glass, Wood, Paper

Recently Viewed

View All