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6. Ganesha India, Tamil Nadu 12th century, Chola dynasty copper alloy 20 5/8 in - 52.4 cm |
Ganesha, as the remover of obstacles, is one of the most popular Hindu deities and is worshipped before any new task or endeavour is undertaken to ensure an auspicious beginning. The 10th century figure in the exhibition shows the restrained elegance found in early Chola sculptures. He is portrayed with childlike proportions and is slimmer and more attenuated than in later examples, with smaller ears, a slender trunk and less chubby legs. As in the figure of Parvati, he stands in tribhanga on a lotus pedestal holding in his four hands a noose, battle-axe, broken tusk and a sweet that is concealed by his scrolling trunk. The figure is encircled by a separately-cast aureole, decorated with nine stylised flames, which is rare for still being intact. |