The revered Ganesha Purana contains the episode of the battle between the demon Sindoora and Sri Ganesha, whose victory was celebrated as a great festive occasion by Brahma, Indra, sage Vasishtha, and fellow learned beings, apsaras who danced in the court of Ganapati and various divine, semi-divine creatures.
Amidst the fanfare, Sri Ganesha was placed, covered in the lifeblood of Sindoora, which gave his celestial physique a bright vermillion tone. Seated on a royal throne, and placed on an intricately designed platform, Sri Ganesha’s glory in this wood statue is a recreation of his exaltation as the sovereign ruler of all beings.
Sri Ganesha is the creator, protector, and destroyer of the universe. He is the origin of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas- the three basic qualities found in every aspect of the world. To pay respects to these unfathomable characteristics of Ganesha, Lord Brahma and the god built a palace-like shrine for the “Daitya-Vimardana” (slayer of the demon). Through this magnificent wooden Ganesha statue, we can visualize the grandness of the celestial temple of the elephant-faced deity.
The platform is decorated by various forms of Ganesha, each one of them labled, with a detailed adornment of its floor that serves as the base for the regal throne. A canopy shades the godly aura of Ganesha, whose outlandish red skin tone looks mystical with the perfect contrast created by the golden ornaments and gold-plated dhoti. The four-armed Ganesha statue depicts a crescent moon and third-eye on the lord’s forehead- symbols of his control over the inner Kundalini potency.
The exquisiteness of Ganesha’s throne in this wooden artwork puts to shame the most priceless thrones made for rulers. In golden plates, Ganesha’s divine Lilas (plays) are highlighted on the frontal portion of the seat. Two beautiful peacocks are carved on each side, with their slender necks serving as the holders for bells- an auspicious Hindu emblem. The posterior of the throne is equally awe-inspiring, with floral vines bordering the red canvas on which blossomed lotuses, paisleys, and pairs of peacocks form a network of eye-catching auspicious elements.
Ganesha’s dangling foot rests on a chowki (small platform), near which are placed two couchant Mushaka (rats), similar to the lions that are placed beneath Devi’s images. Plates of offerings to Ganapati are kept on a stand in front of the stately Ganesha wood statue. One could go on to talk about every element in this ornamentation of Sri Ganesha and his murti, however, all the praises for this handmade idol can be wrapped up by prostrating at the feet of Ganapati.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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