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100% Handmade
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MADE IN INDIA.

Musical Ganesha Panel with Bhairava, Shiva Linga, Dakshinamurti Shiva, Shiva Ganas and Pashupatinath Shiva

$1893.75
$2525
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
ZBX40
South Indian Temple Wood Carving
Height: 47 inch
Width: 49.2 inch
Depth: 2.5 inch
Weight 31.20 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 40 days
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

An Ode to the Divine Ensemble: A Masterpiece of South Indian Wood Carving

This magnificent wood carving is a testament to the enduring artistry and profound spirituality of South India. Each meticulously rendered figure and motif tells a story, weaving together a tapestry of divine energies and ancient lore. Crafted with the skill passed down through generations of temple artisans, this panel is more than just a decorative piece; it is an invitation to connect with the sacred heart of Hindu cosmology. The rich, warm tones of the wood evoke a sense of timelessness, while the intricate details speak of a deep reverence for the deities depicted.

The Symphony of Deities

At the heart of this composition is a harmonious gathering of revered figures. We see the beloved Remover of Obstacles, Lord Ganesha, depicted in multiple forms, his presence exuding wisdom and auspiciousness. Notice how he is shown playing a musical instrument, perhaps invoking the very rhythm of creation. Adjacent to him, the mighty Lord Shiva appears in various powerful manifestations. One panel showcases the awe-inspiring Bhairava, a fierce aspect of Shiva who protects the cosmos. Another panel features Dakshinamurti Shiva, the silent, meditative teacher, imparting profound knowledge. The Shiva Linga, the formless, abstract representation of Shiva, stands as a central axis of divine energy, symbolizing ultimate reality and the cyclical nature of existence. The celestial attendants of Shiva, the Shiva Ganas, are also present, their lively forms adding a dynamic element to the divine council. Furthermore, the powerful and compassionate form of Pashupatinath Shiva, the Lord of all creatures, presides over the scene, a reminder of Shiva's all-encompassing dominion.

Symbolism and Cultural Resonance

The surrounding elements further enrich the narrative. Majestic lions, often symbols of power and royalty, stand guard, representing the divine strength that upholds the universe. Graceful peacocks, symbols of beauty and immortality, add an element of celestial splendor. These creatures, alongside the floral motifs, are deeply embedded in Indian art and mythology, often associated with the divine consorts of the gods and goddesses. The panel as a whole can be seen as a microcosm of the cosmos, where different divine energies converge, interacting and coexisting in a divine dance. The presence of Ganesha playing music, and the overall ensemble, suggests a celebration of divine harmony and the auspicious beginnings that these deities represent. Such intricate carvings were traditionally an integral part of temple architecture, adorning gateways, pillars, and inner sanctums, serving as visual prayers and conduits for divine blessings.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

This South Indian temple wood carving is a rare piece that brings the sacred atmosphere of ancient temples into your home. The exceptional level of detail, from the delicate drapery of the divine garments to the expressive faces of the deities, reflects the unparalleled skill of the artisans. Owning this panel is not merely acquiring an object of art, but embracing a piece of cultural heritage, a tangible connection to centuries of devotion and artistic excellence. It is a piece that will undoubtedly inspire awe and reverence, becoming a focal point of contemplation and conversation.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.
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2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.
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3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.
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4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.
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How to care for Wood Statues?


Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.

 

  • Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

 

  • Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

 

  • You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

 

  • Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

 

It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster. 

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