Ganesha in Lalitasana – fire-gilded bronze temple statue (Nepal/India, traditional work)

Specifications

• Dimensions (H × W): 85 × 46 cm
• Weight: 41 kg
• Material: Bronze with extensive remains of fire gilding
• Technique: Lost-wax casting, extensively hand-finished

Estimated value: €30,000 – €60,000
Subject to further confirmation of period, origin and metallurgical characteristics.

This monumental Ganesha is an exceptionally substantial bronze sculpture, measuring 85 cm in height and weighing 41 kg. Close microscopic examination reveals extensive remnants of historic gilding preserved within recessed areas of the surface, while exposed high points show pronounced natural wear.

The surviving gold is closely integrated with the underlying metal rather than forming a superficial modern coating. Its appearance, distribution and preservation are consistent with a traditional fire-gilded surface. The bronze itself displays a complex, layered patina with dark brown, black and green oxidation occurring both across the surface and within protected recesses.

Together, the considerable weight, casting characteristics, surface stratigraphy, oxidation and surviving gilding distinguish this sculpture from the much lighter decorative Ganesha figures commonly produced for the modern export market.

Extensive Hand-Finishing

The sculpture has been extensively finished by hand after casting. Variations in the engraved ornament demonstrate individual workmanship rather than mechanically repeated decoration.

The hands and feet carry carefully engraved floral and geometric motifs, while areas that would normally remain unfinished on purely decorative objects have also received considerable attention. Particularly notable is the treatment of the reverse: the sculpture is fully modelled and decorated around the entire body rather than being conceived primarily for frontal display.

The elaborate pedestal continues this approach, incorporating lotus ornament and auspicious vessel or kalasha symbolism. The degree of finish throughout the sculpture is consistent with its conception as a significant ritual image.

Iconography & Symbolism

Ganesha is represented in lalitasana, the posture of royal ease, combining a relaxed seated position with a powerful and commanding presence.

The forehead carries a prominent trishula or trident motif together with geometric ornamentation suggestive of a tantric or Shaivite devotional context. At the base appears Ganesha’s characteristic vahana, the rat, one of his principal identifying attributes.

As one of the most widely revered deities of the Hindu tradition, Ganesha is associated with wisdom, prosperity, auspicious beginnings and above all the removal of obstacles.

Surface & Technical Examination

Microscopic examination shows that the surface is not uniform but consists of multiple layers of wear, oxidation and surviving gilding. Gold remains are particularly concentrated in recessed ornament and protected areas, while projecting surfaces show substantially greater loss.

This uneven distribution is important: it corresponds naturally with prolonged handling, cleaning and environmental exposure over time. Green copper corrosion products are visible within sections of the patina, supporting identification of the underlying material as a copper-rich bronze alloy.

The combination of casting, extensive hand-finishing, substantial mass, complex patination and historic gilding makes this an unusually imposing example worthy of further specialist study.

A monumental and exceptionally heavy Ganesha in bronze, distinguished by extensive historic gilding, elaborate hand-finishing and a richly developed surface patina.