Beneath a Kirtimukham prabhavali (aureole), stands the gentle Lord Ganesha. The superb proportions of Kirtimukham contrasts sharply with the chubby child’s form of the standing Ganesha idol. So does the diametric variation in the expressions - the former is a paragon of all-consuming ferocity, while the latter is widely worshipped for its childlike gentleness.
The Lord Ganesha statue that you see on this page is sculpted from fine-quality wood found in South India. The deep brown monotone makes it fit to be housed in a solemn, traditional-style temple of the contemporary devotee. There are short pillars on either side of the standing figure which, together with the pillars, resemble the architecture of ancient Indian temples.
Note the body language of this standing Ganpati murti. He is chaturbhujadhari, with the anterior hands bearing a parasol and a kamandalu. These are indicative of an ascetic life, devoid of shelter and sustained by nothing but the kindness of strangers, respectively. As such, this Ganesha idol is heavily influenced by the divine personality of Lord Shiva, father of Ganesha.
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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