Ganesha's association with music is made evident by different sources. He has been shown in Indian art with several musical instruments. It is said that Ganesha knows perfectly well the basis of the seven notes of the musical scale. He enjoys the sound of the drum and has perfect knowledge to recognize the true nature of the music. The presence of musical instruments in the hands of Ganapati in some of his forms clearly shows his predilection for music. In a Kangra painting of 18th century Ganesha has been shown, along with Nataraja, playing different musical instruments, e.g., Cymbals, Vina and damaru. The Shaivite monuments of South India also depict Ganesa as a musician. However, playing Tabla is a rare representation of Ganesa.
In the present manifestation, the pot-bellied Ganesa has been shown seated elegantly on a pedestal, supported by lotus petals. The deity with his two hands plays Tabla.
He has two eyes, drooping ears, two tusks and Shaivite marks (tilak) on his forehead. He is wearing a crown, sacred-thread, necklace, sash, armlets, bracelets, anklets and so on. His pants are incised with plain straps, in vertical order. The upper portion of the body is bare.
References:
D.N. Bakshi, Hindu Divinities in Japanese Buddhist Pantheon, Calcutta, 1979.
Paul Martin-Dubost, Ganesa: the enchanter of the three worlds, Mumbai, 1977.
R.C. Majumdar (ed.), The age of imperial Kanauj, Bombay, 1955.
Of Related Interest:
Book: Ganesa The Enchanter of The Three Worlds
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Jewelry: Ganesha Sitting on OM
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Textiles: Shri Ganeshai Namah Prayer Shawl
Click Here to read the Article: Ganesha - the Elephant Headed God, Art and Mythology
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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