Ganesha 12th-13th century

bronze, sculpture

3d sculpting

stone

sculpture

bronze

sculptural image

unrealistic statue

sculpting

sculpture

technology juxtaposition

vertical object

structured

statue

This 12th-13th century bronze sculpture of Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom and remover of obstacles, is a fine example of Khmer art. Ganesha is depicted seated in a meditative pose, his elephant head and trunk clearly visible. This small, intricate sculpture, now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, highlights the skill of anonymous Khmer artists in capturing religious figures with delicate detail. The patina of the bronze adds to the sculpture's visual appeal.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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God of wisdom and remover of obstacles both visible and invisible, the elephant-headed Ganesha is invoked at the commencement of any new undertaking or journey. As the deity's spirit was thought to reside within its likeness, this small bronze statue would thus constitute a perfect traveling companion, guiding its owner towards wise decisions and safe paths. A popular Hindu deity, Ganesha was introduced to Cambodian artists in the 7th century. Over the next five centuries, India's chubby elephant icon was transformed into a sleek, anthropomorphic figure. He sits meditatively in a classic lotus position, holding his own broken tusk.