Ganesha – The Remover of Obstacles
Ganesh also known as Ganapati and Vinayaka is one of the best known and most worshipped deities in the Hindu pantheon. Ganesha is said to be the deity of removal of obstacles. His image is found throughout Nepal and India. Hindu sects worship him regardless of other affiliations. Devotion to Ganesha is widely diffused and extends to Jains, Buddhists and beyond Nepal and India.
Gestures and Attributes
Although he is known by many other attributes, Ganesh’s elephant head makes him easy to identify. Ganesh is widely revered as the Remover of Obstacles and more generally as Lord of Beginnings and Lord of Obstacles (Vighnesha, Vighneshvara), patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom. He is honored at the start of rituals and ceremonies and invoked as Patron of Letters during writing sessions. Several texts relate mythological anecdotes associated with his birth and exploits and explain his distinct iconography.
About this Sculpture
Expertly cast from copper alloy using ancient technique known as lost wax method and gilded with 24 karat gold with hand painted face, this sculpture is a profoundly moving representation Lord Ganesha. This sculpture was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan who are considered among the best in the world. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for use in temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.
