Vishnu Seated on Shesha
Vishnu, the Preserver is the protector of dharma (righteaousness) and the guardian of humanity.
Vishnu has had10 avatars or incarnations. He assumes these and comes down to earth in order to help humanity.
In reliefs, sculptures, and paintings Vishnu is shown possessing 4 arms and has a long and narrow sign in the shape of a U inscribed on his forehead. His followers wear the same sign. He carries his symbols of
1. white conch shell with which he is victor over the demons
2. rotating disc, a weapon to oppose every enemy of the Divine order
3. Golden mace, symbol of his royal power in the realm of gods and men
4. lotus flower, symbol of purity and original creation.
His mount is the Garuda bird, an enormous eagle which often takes the form of a winged man with a strongly curved beak. He has a long and narrow sign in the shape of a U inscribed on his forehead.
