The Ancient and Medieval Architecture of India: A Study of Indo-Aryan Civilisation c18.31

c18.31

The central head, majestic and calm in expression, has always been mistaken for Brahmâ, the Creator; but it is really the râjasic Aspect of the Trimûrti, Vishnu the Preserver, with the shining symbols of His three footsteps ¹ upon the splendid jewelled crown, the holy Mount Meru. He wears also His necklet of pearls, the worlds innumerable in the making ² which are strung together on their orbits in His firmament—and the glorious panch-ratna collar of gold glittering with His jewels³—ether, air, fire, water, and earthy matter.