Western India
Wood, polychromed
A finely carved panel with a central figure of Ganesha seated in padmasana (lotus posture) with one leg folded up and the other resting on the ground. The leg on the ground symbolises his connection to the earthly realm, while the other is rooted in single-pointed concentration upon supreme reality. He holds a modaka (sweet rice or wheat cake) in his lower left hand, which he eats with his trunk. His lower right hand is in abhaya mudra, and he carries an ankusa (goad) and pasha (noose) in his upper hands. Such polychromed panels were placed above doorways or shrines to mark auspicious thresholds and invoke the deity’s protection.
Ganesha, the Lord of the Ganas, is one of the most popular Indian deities. He is the god of wisdom, bestower of favours, giver of success in all undertakings and the one who overcomes obstacles. Said to be the son of Shiva and Parvati, his aspect, half human and half elephant betrays his animistic origins. His wives are Riddhi (abundance, prosperity) and Siddhi (success, good luck).
Size (cms): 14(H) x 7.5(W) x 5(D)
Size (inches): 5.5(H) x 3(W) x 2(D)
