Hindu God Ganesha has been represented with the head of an elephant since the early stages of his appearance in Indian art. Ganapati or Ganesha, the Lord of Ganas, the elephant faced God, represents the power of the Supreme Being that removes obstacles and ensures success in human endeavors. He is worshipped for siddhi, success in undertakings, and buddhi, intelligence. He is worshipped before any venture is started. He is also the God of education, knowledge and wisdom, literature, and the fine arts.The stone carving tradition in India is one of the richest in the world. Stone carving is an ancient activity where pieces of rough natural stone are shaped by the controlled removal of stone. Art of Stone Statues and Collectibles is the poetic expression of stone craft. Sculptures of Hindu deities, modelled on classical prototypes, continue to be made in many parts of India. In Tamil Nadu such sculptures are made in granite. In Karnataka, exquisite figures carved in relief in black stone, with details engraved in fine lines, come out in greyish- white against the black surface. Softer stones are used in Orissa, which are easy to carve. The fully carved jali-worked, in Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, are most intricately done. The artisans in Gujarat are engaged in the art of cutting and polishing semi-precious stones. One can see the life like images being skilfully sculptured in different varieties of stone across the state. In Jaipur, white marble is used for carving out statues of gods and goddesses as well as animal and human figures. |
