Promotional calendar for The Society of Chemical Industries and J.R. Geigy in Basle, Switzerland

This calendar promoting 'The Society of Chemical Industries' in Basle (Basel) features Vishnu with Sridevi and Bhudevi, and uses the imagery of Ravi Varma's Shesh Narayan. Variously known as a manifestation or servant of Vishnu, Sheshnag or Adishesh, is considered the king of snakes and one of the 'primal beings' of the universe. Depicted with multiple heads, he is said to control time and creation with his coiling and uncoiling. He is often depicted, as in Ravi Varma's composition and here, floating on the 'universal ocean' or in space with Vishnu and his consorts seated or lying on his body.