|
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.
|
