Ganesh - Antique Thai Style Bronze Reclining Ganesha Statue w/Mouse - 55cm/22"

Ganesh - Antique Thai Style Bronze Reclining Ganesha Statue w/Mouse - 55cm/22"

Measures - (Height) 55cm/22" x (Length) 62cm/25" 

An antique Thai style bronze reclining Ganesha attended by his mouse. The distinctive patina of the piece is particularly delightful.

In the pantheon of Hindu deities, Lord Ganesha stands as a beloved figure, revered as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom and success. While most depictions of Ganesha portray him in a seated or standing posture, one particular representation stands out - the reclining Ganesha.

This unique portrayal carries profound symbolism, offering insights into the multifaceted nature of this revered deity.

Ganesha is the elephant headed son of Shiva. He holds his broken tusk in one hand and a bowl of sweetmeats in another hand.

Here, reclining Ganesha is depicted lying on his side, resting on a bolster, with one leg bent and the other extended. His trunk is often curled gracefully or Ganesh holds laddus (sweets) - symbolizing his love for sweets and his role as the provider of material and spiritual rewards.

The reclining posture of Ganesha signifies a state of relaxation and tranquility. It symbolizes the idea of resting after overcoming obstacles or challenges. By portraying Ganesha in a reclined position, we convey the message that even the mighty deity takes time to unwind and rejuvenate.

However, whilst reclining, Ganesha's head is depicted slightly raised, suggesting a state of alertness and vigilance. Despite being at rest, Ganesha remains ever-watchful, ready to intervene whenever obstacles arise. This aspect highlights Ganesha's role as the guardian and protector of his devotees, emphasizing that his divine presence is always at hand, even in moments of repose.

Ganesha's reclining form also symbolizes the integration of opposites - action and rest, creation and dissolution, wisdom and ignorance. In Hindu philosophy, existence is characterized by the interplay of opposing forces, and Ganesha, as the lord of wisdom, embodies the harmonious balance between these forces. His reclining posture signifies the reconciliation of dualities, inviting devotees to seek equilibrium in their lives.

He also holds an axe and noose. Whilst an elephant-headed deity wielding a weapon, axe or lasso may inspire images of a belligerent warhead, rest assured these items represent something far more encouraging. Instead, these instruments are rooted in metaphor and promote the idea that we should cut away the obstacles before us. In destroying our vices and obstacles, be they certain hurdles in our lives or more abstract feelings such as jealousy and anger, we can source new beginnings and cultivate a new approach to the things that have been worrying us. 

His remaining hand is held in a gesture of protection. 

Behind Ganesha sits an aureole or circle of light. This represents his divinity. The rear of his aureole displays the Om symbol. More than just a visual representation, the Om symbol holds deep metaphysical and spiritual significance. Symbolizing the unity of all existence and the interconnectedness of the cosmos.

Similar to Krishna Ganesha celebrates life through it's pleasures and beauty.

The direction of Ganesha's trunk has symbolic meaning. Here the trunk turns to Ganesha's left. This signifies the direction for success in the world. It is a position associated with grihastas, or householders.

Here Ganesha is attended by a mouse. The principal vehicle of Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is known as the Conqueror of Obstacles (Vighnaharta). Historically, when agriculture was the primary mode of sustenance, rodents were one of the biggest obstacles to prosperity. Rodents would destroy standing crops, eat up stored grains and thereby result in severe losses for the common man. Lord Ganesha, in having a mouse as his vehicle, is symbolically shown to have conquered this pest, thus staying true to his name of Vighnaharta.

In his early forms in India, Ganesha was associated with fertility. Later he became widely revered as the Remover of Obstacles and more generally as Lord of Beginnings and Lord of Obstacles, patron of arts and sciences and the deity of intellect and wisdom.

Through its serene posture, subtle gestures, and nuanced imagery, reclining Ganesha embodies a myriad of meanings - from rest and relaxation to spiritual aspiration and divine protection.

As devotees contemplate this unique portrayal, they are invited to delve deeper into the essence of Ganesha's teachings and embrace the timeless wisdom encapsulated in his divine form.

One of the most recognizable of the Asian deities this representation of Ganesha is sure to enlighten your home with endlessly timeless style.

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