A Vision of Vishnu (Vaikuntha Darshana)

c 1710-15

We know from court records that a ruler of the northwestern kingdom of Bikaner had a vivid dream in which he saw Vishnu and Lakshmi enthroned in a garden pavilion. Interpreting the vision as a good omen or blessing, the king ordered a painter to make an illustration based on his description. The subject remained a favorite for local artists and patrons for several generations. Like most versions, this painting presents Lakshmi as much smaller than Vishnu, and even smaller than their female servants.