Indian Sterling Silver Ganesha Idol / Mask Figurine on Plinth
Decorative Object / Religious Iconography · Unidentified Hindu artisan silversmith, likely crafted in an Indian handicraft center like Jaipur or Varanasi. These items are often sold through religious specialty shops or high-end giftware boutiques rather than large global brands.
Pattern: Traditional Hindu Iconography: Lord Ganesha (The Remover of Obstacles). Non-production pattern, characterized by regional folk-art influences.
Type
Decorative Object / Religious Iconography
Maker
Unidentified Hindu artisan silversmith, likely crafted in an Indian handicraft center like Jaipur or Varanasi. These items are often sold through religious specialty shops or high-end giftware boutiques rather than large global brands.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-purity Indian Silver (.900+). Many such pieces are 'resin-filled' or 'weighted' with a core of resin/wax to provide stability and volume while using a thick silver outer skin.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20cm height. Weight likely ranges between 300g to 800g; however, if resin-filled, the 'gross' weight will be significantly higher than the actual silver troy ounce content.
Description
A striking silver representation of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu deity of beginnings and wisdom. The piece features Ganesha's head and trunk mounted upon a rectangular, decorated pedestal. The silver has been treated with an oxidation process to create a deep contrast, emphasizing the intricate patterns on the trunk and the 'third eye' on the forehead. Its presence is both auspicious and decorative, serving as a talisman for success.
Key Features
Detailed mukut (crown) with floral motifs; upward-curled trunk ('Valampuri' style if right-turning, though here it appears centered/neutral); deeply recessed eyes; and a geometric 'yantra-style' engraving on the base top.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-purity Indian Silver (.900+). Many such pieces are 'resin-filled' or 'weighted' with a core of resin/wax to provide stability and volume while using a thick silver outer skin.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish to highlight recessed details; featuring repoussé and chasing techniques. Decoration includes a tiered 'Mukut' (crown), stylized trunk musculature, and a double-bordered plinth with geometric engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks would be '925' or 'STG' often found on the lower rear of the base or the underside. In India, the BIS Hallmark (triangular logo) may also be present on contemporary pieces.
Construction Details
Precision lost-wax casting or electroforming. The sharp details in the crown and base suggest a modern casting process followed by hand-finishing and chemical oxidation for the 'antique' look.
Functional Features
Static decorative/devotional figurine. The flat tiered base is designed for stability on an altar (mandir) or desk.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a stationary sculptural piece.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial craftsmanship. The uniformity of the pattern on the base suggests the use of modern master-molds, while the finish shows skilled manual polishing and aging.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the '925' mark (if present) and the lack of 'bleeding' at the seams are indicators of quality. Note that many 'Silver Ganesha' items found in retail are actually silver-plated resin; a true sterling piece should feel cold to the touch and exhibit a specific metallic ring when tapped gently.
Origin & Manufacturing
India. Likely manufactured in a specialized silver workshop in Rajasthan or Maharashtra, known for high-quality devotional silverware.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th - 21st Century). It reflects the 'Neo-Traditional' revival of Indian silver crafts intended for the global export and luxury gift market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990–Present. The clarity of the casting and the specific style of the protective plastic packaging suggest relatively recent production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Remover of Obstacles' and the god of new beginnings. Such silver idols are traditional gifts for housewarmings (Griha Pravesh), weddings, and the Diwali festival to bring prosperity to the household.
Condition Notes
Excellent/Mint. Currently preserved in original factory plastic wrap, which has prevented tarnish (sulfidation). No visible dents or scratches; structure appears sound.
Value Estimate
$250 - $600 USD depending on whether the piece is solid sterling or resin-filled/weighted sterling. Market value is heavily dictated by the current spot price of silver per gram.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which will remove the intentional oxidation (dark detailing). Use a soft cotton cloth and very mild silver foam if needed. Keep away from high humidity to prevent heavy black tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated brass versions (much heavier/yellowish undertone), solid heavy-cast silver figurines (significantly more expensive), or 'Gold Leaf' variants.
Interesting Facts
Ganesha is one of the most popular subjects in Indian silverwork because silver is considered a 'pure' metal in Hindu ritual (Sattvic), making it ideal for the representation of deities.