A massive Indian buff coloured sandstone carving

A massive Indian buff coloured sandstone carving, possibly depicting Shiva and Parvati in an architectural niche, a male and female attendant at their feet, probably 11th/12th century, 64.5cm. Provenance: purchased from David Tremayne Ltd., London 30th September 1980. Vishnu is the all-pervading essence of all beings, the master of - and beyond - the past, present and future, the creator and destroyer of all existences. Vishnu is four-armed, holding a ;lotus, mace, conch and chakra (wheel). IN almost all Hindu denominations, Vishnu is either worshipped directly or in the form of his ten avatars, such as Krishna. Parvati is a Hindu goddess nominally the second consort of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and rejuvenation. Parvati is the mother of the gods Ganesha and Skanda (Kartikeya). Some communities also believe her to be the sister of god Vishnu. Parvati when depicted alongside Shiva appears with two arms, but when alone she is shown having four arms, and astride a tier or lion. Generally considered a benign goddess, Parvati also has fearful aspects like Durga, Kali, Chandi, and the Mahavidyas, as well as benevolent forms like Mahagauri, Shailputri and Lalita.