Varanasi Flying Ganesh

Dimensions: 7cm wide, 10cm high, 10cm long.
Code: WOOD 4121

The finely carved and painted figure of Lord Ganesha, with his vahanna (vehicle) Mooshika (mouse), was hand-carved and hand painted in Varanasi, in the central state of Uttar Pradesh. It is in pristine condition. Ganesha, also known as Ganapati, is one of the most loved and most worshiped deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is the god of new beginnings, remover of obstacles, bestower of favours and granter of success. Ganesha is also the patron of intellectuals and writers. In this piece, Ganesh is richly garlanded and in each of his four arms he holds a different item, including a book, a noose (to help him catch obstacles and remove them), a conch shell (a symbol of victory and accomplishment) and a laddu (sweet), of which he is very fond. This piece comes with a hook ready to hang.

The ancient city of Varanasi (also known as Kashi, Banaras and Benares) is located on the banks of the River Ganges. This sacred city is one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites and is one of the world’s oldest living cities. It is also home to a very special group of artisans who make beautiful hand-carved and hand-painted toys. Often these are made from one piece of wood and they are always painted with incredible detail. This ancient craft was recognised with GI status in 2015. The importance of carrying on the tradition is such that when a child is born into these families a new lathe is added to the family possessions.