Lord Vishnu with Manifested Energy and Fertility

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In Hindu thought, every significant god has a wife, who is identified as the visible manifestation of his 'Shakti' or power. Vishnu's wife is goddess Lakshmi. When depicted together they are known as Lakshmi-Narayana. In many instances, as here, Devi Lakshmi manifests as two separate goddesses, Shri Devi and Bhu Devi, who appear on either side of Lord Vishnu. Shri Devi is an alternate name of goddess Lakshmi, and Bhu Devi is the earth-goddess. While the former denotes energy, the latter represents fertility.

Both the goddesses are depicted similarly, wearing exactly the same clothes, ornaments and even a similar crown, signifying that the Lord holds equal affection for both. Their red saris and green blouses have wide gold borders, much like the beautiful zari saris made in South India. The South Indian influence is also evident in the high tower-like crown of Lord Vishnu, while that of the two ladies definitely betrays a Mughal influence.

The trio is seated on the hoods of the serpent Sheshanaga, with his five hoods spread out protectively over them. The Lord holds his usual attributes: the left hands supporting a conch and mace respectively, while the right hold a discus and lotus. The last, instead of being held by the stalk, is placed full bloom on his open palm. The color-scheme is rather subdued with minimum colors, and the background is dull enough to make their three bodies glow, making them stand out in the composition.