Vishnu Narayana on Shesha | 20 Century | Ravi Varma Press

Oleograph
Ravi Varma Press | 20 Century

Vishnu is shown with his traditional attributes, including the padma (lotus) and shankha (conch shell), while Ananta's multiple hoods rise behind him to form a powerful protective canopy. Lakshmi is positioned beside Vishnu, reinforcing the familiar devotional association of Vishnu and Lakshmi. The composition also includes attendant figures, including a winged Garuda and a figure identified as Hanuman, recognisable through the characteristic curled tail.
The subject belongs to the wider Sheshashayi Vishnu / Shesh Narayana tradition, depicting Vishnu reclining upon the cosmic serpent Ananta. The imagery is associated with Vishnu's cosmic repose and the mythological cycle of creation. Related Ravi Varma prints of Vishnu reclining on Ananta are documented in museum and historical collections, including an oleographic example identified as Seshanarayana.