Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c12.14

v1.c12.14

and should be of black complexion with three eyes, should be draped in white clothes and capable of producing the fearful noise of the sea. The *vāhana* or vehicle of this personified weapon is the wind, *Vāyu*, and its banner is the feather. It must carry an actual arrow on its head. The birth star of *Bāṇa*, whatever it means, is given as the *Śata-bhishang-nakshatra* in the month *Māgha* and its *bījākshara* is said to be *sa*. The personified *Dhanus* is a female figure carrying a stringed bow on her head; her complexion should have the red colour of the lotus. *Chakra* is described in the *Vishṇu-dharmōttara* as a male figure with round eyes and a drooping belly; this image of *Chakra* should be adorned with various ornaments and should carry a *chāmara*. It should be sculptured so as to indicate that it is evincing a desire to gaze upon Vishṇu; and the left hand of Vishṇu should be made to rest upon the head of the *Chakra-purusha*.