Brahma
As the creator of the world whose four heads and four arms represent the four points of the compass, it may be thought that Brahma would have a dominant role within Hinduism. Though he represents one of the three main forms of Brahman, he is very much subordinated to Vishnu, who represents the sustaining aspect of Brahman and Shiva who represents the destructive aspect. In fact, one story tells of Brahma's fifth head being burnt up by Shiva's third eye.
He may be shown holding a vase of water, symbolizing the water from which the universe evolved, a rosary for counting the passage of time, a sacrificial spoon linking him with the Brahmin priests and their traditional role in the offering of sacrifices and the four Vedas, ancient sacred books of the Hindus. He is also at times shown with a disc and an alms bowl. He may be depicted on a lotus throne. He is often bearded, and may wear a black or white garment.
His consort (wife/partner) is Sarasvati, goddess of wisdom and music and his vehicle is a swan or a goose.
As creation is the work of the mind and the intellect, Lord Brahma symbolizes the Universal Mind.
