Western India
Wood, polychromed
An extremely naïve folk door-lintel panel depicting Ganesha, framed within a shallow arch that forms a ritual throne around the deity. The carving is schematic and abstract, essentially reducing the figure to a pot-bellied body with outstretched arms in flat relief. Incised geometric lines outline the body and limbs, rather than detail and ornamentation. Traces of orange pigment remain on the surface, though much has worn through with age, leaving the wood exposed and softened with patina. 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): 18(H) x 10(W) x 4(D)
Size (inches): 7(H) x 4(W) x 1.5(D)
