Elements of Hindu Iconography v4.c29.3

v4.c29.3

Bhaktas may be represented by anthropomorphic figures, or, in the case of Śaiva bhaktas, as Śivaliṅgas, or occasionally also in the form of Śiva himself. But in the case of Vaiṣṇava bhaktas they are generally represented as actual human beings just as they appeared when they were living. The images may be made of stone, clay, metal, wood or gems. They may be carved in half relief or in the round (*ardha-chitra* or *chitrābhāsa*). They should be sculptured according to the *aṣṭa-tāla* measure, either as standing or as seated on a *padmāsana* or a *siṁhāsana*. They may be sculptured with or without a tuft of hair on their head; if they are shown with a tuft it should be neatly done up in a knot on the top of the head;