ALABASTER GANESHA GOD OF WISDOM Circa 1850

ALABASTER GANESHA GOD OF WISDOM Circa 1850

This item is an antique statue from India of the Hindu deity Ganesha, likely crafted from marble or alabaster with decoration. Ganesha is revered as the remover of obstacles and the lord of wisdom and new beginnings and literature. 

Remover of Obstacles: Ganesha is known as the Lord of obstacles, both material and spiritual. He is worshipped before any major undertaking, such as starting a business, a journey, or a new venture.

Iconography: He is depicted with an elephant head, representing immense wisdom, and a large belly, which symbolizes the universe. He usually has four arms, holding a pasha (noose) to capture obstacles, an ankusha (goad) to move forward, a modak (sweet) representing the rewards of life, and one hand in abhaya mudra (gesture of fearlessness).

The Broken Tusk: One of his tusks is often broken, representing sacrifice and the ability to overcome duality.

Vehicle (Vahana): His vehicle is a mouse (or rat), which represents the ability to overcome desires and ego to navigate the world. 

Origins and Mythology
Parents: Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva (the destroyer) and Goddess Parvati (the goddess of power).

Birth Story: According to popular legend, Parvati created Ganesha out of clay/ghee to guard her while she bathed. When Shiva returned, he was denied entry by the boy, resulting in a conflict where Shiva severed Ganesha's head. To appease a grieving Parvati, Shiva replaced the boy's head with that of the first creature he found, which was an elephant.

Material: Similar antique figures are often made of marble or alabaster. Painted details, most notably the red accents on the base, hands, and ears. Traces of gold leaf or parcel-gilt are also present.

Location: These statues were predominantly crafted in India linked to Rajasthan or Jaipur) during the 18th to 19th centuries.