The statue represents Lord Ganesha in his three-faced manifestation, one in the centre while other two, carved in perfect symmetry and with identical demeanour, on either side flanking the face in the centre. His trunks on the sides are upwards raised while that in the centre is laid downwards suggesting that he pervades all spaces, above him and below. All three trunks are beautifully twisted dispelling on one hand the monotony of a dull straightened length by their rhythmic curves, and symbolising, on the other, his complete hold over ‘ganas’ – discordant cosmic elements, and his command of entire knowledge and riches. When consecrated facing, the great Lord bestows his bliss from all sides, and when, with his back, he provides a security cover against all dangers and commands every calamity from whichever direction it comes.
The image of the elephant god has been installed in a Prabhavali, which imparts to the divine image a magnificent frame, and to the whole statue, rare beauty. The Prabhavali consists of three parts, an architectural base-part composed of two half pillars and lotus-brackets, a middle part comprising two half circles made of conventionalised lotus motifs, and a Kirtti-mukha with well moulded whiskers, on the top. The figure of Lord Ganesha has a well defined anatomy, sharp elegant features, tender face, fine fingers and as much fine nails. He wears on his three heads tall crowns but not so spiral as the South Indian icons usually have. His elegantly pleated antariya and sash and ornaments, a few but gorgeous, impart to his figure further beauty. A snake tied on the belly to support it, besides a belly-band, is quite interesting.
This description by Prof. P.C. Jain and Dr. Daljeet. Prof. Jain specializes on the aesthetics of literature and is the author of numerous books on Indian art and culture. Dr. Daljeet is the curator of the Miniature Painting Gallery, National Museum, New Delhi. They have both collaborated together on a number of books.
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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