Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c11.19

v1.c11.19

Bhuvaraha, or Adivaraha. The figure of Bhūvarāha should have, according to the *Vaikhānāsāgama*, the face of a boar in association with the body of a man. It has four arms, two of which hold the *śaṅkha* and the *chakra* as usual. The right leg should be slightly bent and be made to rest upon the jewelled hood of the mythical serpent Ādiśēṣa, who must be sculptured as in company with his wife. Of the remaining two hands, the left hand should be shown as supporting the legs of Bhūmidevi, seated on the god's bent right leg, with her own legs hanging down, while the right hand has to be thrown round the waist of his same goddess. The boar-face of the god should be slightly tilted up so as to make the muzzle approach the bosom of the goddess as though he is engaged in smelling her. The colour of the image of Varāha-Vishṇu is represented by the darkness of twilight. The associated figure of Bhūmidēvī should have her hands in the *añjali* attitude. She should be decked with flowers and dressed in clothes and should be adorned with all suitable ornaments. Her complexion has to be black. Her face should be slightly lifted up and turned towards her lord, and should be expressive of shyness and joy. The top of her head should reach the chest of the figure of Varāha, and her image should be made in accordance with the *pañcha-tāla* measure. Such is the description given in the *Vaikhānāsāgama*.