Antique Ganesh Copper Statue. India. From 18th Century.

Antique Ganesh copper statue. India. From 18th century. The statue depicts Ganesha, known as the god of wisdom, success, and remover of obstacles. The statue shows Ganesha with four arms, which is the classical number for this deity. Although the metal on this smaller figure is rough and patinated, the shape reveals the traditional symbols. The two upper arms stretch out to the sides and merge with a decorative bow behind him. Normally, he holds an axe or trident (to cut the bonds of material attachments) and a noose/rope (to catch and guide the devotees towards truth). When Ganesh's arms and trunk meet closely in front of the chest in this way, it carries three important messages. The left lower hand reaches out to the world with an open blessing hand (Abhaya Mudra). The fact that his lower right hand holds or touches his own trunk is a completely classical Hindu metaphor. An elephant's trunk is extremely strong and is used to peel trees, but it is also so sensitive that it can pick up a single grain of rice. It represents the human mind and intellect. When Ganesha holds his own trunk with his hand, it symbolizes self-control. It reminds the viewer that one should have full control over one's own impulses, thoughts, and actions in order to overcome life's obstacles. Provenance: The statue belongs to a Danish nurse who, from around 1947-60, was part of the UN's vaccination program in Asia and Africa. In connection with this, she acquired the statue. The damage on this type of antique bronze figures almost always comes from ritual rubbing. In Hindu tradition, this type of wear is called a 'pujapatina'. During the daily prayers and rituals (puja) the face is the most prominent and sacred point, and the repeated touching and drying over the centuries wear away the sharp details, leaving the metal soft, smooth, and rounded, which is today considered an important sign of authenticity among collectors. The material is a copper metal alloy. Measurements: ca. 6x4,5x4 cm. Condition: see pictures.