Ganesh Statue - Antique Khmer Style Seated Bronze Ganesha Statue - 29cm/12"

Antique Khmer Style Bronze Seated Ganesha Statue - 29cm/12"

Measures - (Height) 29cm/12"

An expressive antique Khmer-style bronze depicting Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity of wisdom, auspicious beginnings, and the removal of obstacles. Measuring approximately 29 cm / 12 inches high, the four-armed figure sits cross-legged in a broad, balanced composition, combining a commanding presence with finely worked ornament.

Ganesha wears an elaborate diadem with a foliate crest, together with necklaces, armlets, bracelets, and a decorated lower garment. His expansive ears frame a carefully modelled face, while the long, articulated trunk descends before curling toward his left. The rounded torso and comfortably folded legs lend the sculpture a grounded, reassuring character.

Ganesha's attributes include a broken tusk, a bowl of sweetmeats, a chakra or discus, and a conch shell. These emblems bring together themes of learning, spiritual fulfilment, protection, and awakening.

A particularly appealing dark bronze surface is enlivened by mottled green patination and warm brown accents. These contrasts bring out the crown, jewellery, trunk, and garment borders, giving the sculpture considerable visual depth. It offers a distinctive focal point for a home, study, meditation space, or collection of Southeast Asian sacred art.

Ganesha and His Symbolism

Ganesha is revered as a benevolent guardian of new undertakings and a source of wisdom and prosperity. His elephant head is commonly interpreted as an emblem of intelligence, discernment, and foresight, while his trunk suggests adaptability and the ability to meet both great and subtle challenges.

The broken tusk is associated with sacrifice, determination, and learning. In one well-known tradition, Ganesha uses his tusk as a writing implement to record the Mahabharata. The sweetmeats evoke the sweetness of spiritual wisdom and the rewards of devoted practice.

Here, the trunk curls toward Ganesha’s left—the viewer’s right. In some devotional traditions, this orientation is associated with gentleness, domestic harmony, and prosperity, making it a familiar choice for household worship. 

Key Features

• Antique Khmer-style bronze seated Ganesha.

• Height approximately 29 cm / 12 inches.

• Four-armed figure seated cross-legged in a balanced, frontal composition.

• Elephant head with broad ears and a long, finely articulated trunk.

• Trunk curls toward Ganesha’s left.

• Elaborate diadem with foliate ornament and a central forehead motif.

• Detailed necklaces, armlets, bracelets, and decorated garment borders.

• Attributes such as a broken tusk, bowl of sweetmeats, chakra, and conch shell.

• Rounded torso and substantial seated proportions.

• Dark bronze surface with mottled green patination and warm brown accents.

• A distinctive addition to a collection of Hindu, Khmer-inspired, or Southeast Asian sculpture.

Frequently Asked Question's

Who is Ganesha?

Ganesha is the elephant-headed Hindu deity associated with wisdom, prosperity, auspicious beginnings, and the removal of obstacles. He is widely honoured before new undertakings and revered as a patron of learning and creative endeavour.

Why does Ganesha have four arms?

Multiple arms allow a sacred image to express several divine capacities simultaneously. Here, the four-armed form accommodates objects associated with learning, fulfilment, and protection, creating an image of wisdom that is both contemplative and active.

What does the broken tusk represent?

The broken tusk has several traditional explanations. One familiar account connects it with Ganesha’s role as scribe of the Mahabharata, making it an emblem of learning, sacrifice, and perseverance. It may also be interpreted as overcoming apparent imperfection in pursuit of a greater purpose.

What is the meaning of the sweetmeats?

Sweetmeats are a beloved offering to Ganesha. In devotional interpretation, they symbolise the sweetness of wisdom and the fulfilment that comes through spiritual practice. Their presence also reinforces his approachable, generous character.

What does the left-curving trunk mean?

The direction is described from Ganesha’s perspective, not the viewer’s. A trunk turning to his left is associated in some traditions with a gentle, benevolent form suitable for household devotion, often linked with peace and prosperity. These meanings are not identical across all regional traditions.

Are all the hand-held objects identifiable?

The supplied description names a tusk, sweetmeats, discus, and conch. However, the small size and stylised treatment of the implements make some identifications difficult from a single photograph. Close-up views and examination would help confirm their forms; the description should not imply greater certainty than the object supports.

What does “Khmer style” mean?

“Khmer style” describes the sculpture’s visual relationship to Cambodian sacred art, particularly its formal balance, ornamented diadem, detailed jewellery, and treatment of the body. 

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.