Ganesha Seated on Stool and Rat Mount c. 19th century

Editor: So, this watercolor, “Ganesha Seated on Stool and Rat Mount,” dates from the 19th century. The artist is anonymous, and it’s here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. There’s something surprisingly lighthearted about it, almost a playful feel. What catches your eye most when you look at it? Curator: Lighthearted is a lovely way to describe it. Immediately, I'm drawn to that fantastic rat – not just a rat, mind you, but Ganesha's vahana, his vehicle, his loyal steed. It’s this unlikely partnership, right? This huge, four-armed deity casually perched on what looks like a Victorian parlor stool, while his tiny mount patiently waits beneath. What could *that* be about? Editor: It's an interesting contrast for sure. What does that contrast signify, in your view? Curator: For me, the sweetness is in the scale; think of Ganesha’s role as remover of obstacles. In Hindu tradition, a rat can gnaw its way through anything. Perhaps the painting winks at us to suggest that even the smallest creature, the humblest helper, can overcome grand challenges when paired with wisdom and divine support. And I also wonder about this idea of the god on a stool…how might *that* contribute to the artist’s meaning? Editor: That's a fascinating insight about the rat's role and the stool's…accessibility. I’m now seeing the piece in a completely different light. Curator: Art, isn't it splendid? What begins as a quick visual impression, a lightness, deepens into a thoughtful reflection on scale, partnerships, and perhaps, even a touch of self-deprecation. What do *you* think now? Editor: Definitely a richer perspective than I had originally. It's amazing how much history and cultural context can influence your interpretation of a work of art.