Indian Silver-Plate Ganesha Murti (Icon)
Decorative Object / Religious Icon · Unattributed Indian handicraft workshop; likely mass-produced in a center such as Muradabad, known as the 'Brass City' of India.
Pattern: Traditional Hindu Iconography; specifically Ganesha in a seated dhyana-mudra position with an ornate halo (Prabhavali).
Type
Decorative Object / Religious Icon
Maker
Unattributed Indian handicraft workshop; likely mass-produced in a center such as Muradabad, known as the 'Brass City' of India.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass, copper, or white metal alloy). The yellowish tint in wear areas suggests a brass base.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 4-6 inches. Weight approximately 300-600 grams depending on whether the casting is solid or hollow-core.
Description
A detailed representation of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. This piece features Ganesha seated on a high circular plinth, holding traditional attributes (ankusha and pasha) in his rear hands, while his trunk curves toward a bowl of modak (sweets).
Key Features
Highly detailed aureole, decorative floral base, and a specific 'antique silver' finish achieved through chemical oxidation and buffing.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass, copper, or white metal alloy). The yellowish tint in wear areas suggests a brass base.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized silver finish with heavy recessed antiquing to highlight details. Features include repoussé-style casting, an ornate crown (mukuta), and a lotus-style aureole.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the image. Frequently these items are unstamped or may have a 'Made in India' sticker on the base felt.
Construction Details
Lost-wax or sand casting method. The piece is likely a hollow or semi-hollow casting with hand-finishing to the surface details.
Functional Features
Stationary decorative or devotional object. Designed to sit on a flat surface or home altar (mandir).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; stationary object.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial-grade casting. While the detail is high, it is achieved through modern molding rather than individual hand-smithing by a master silversmith.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of sterling silver hallmarks and the specific tone of the oxidation indicate this is a silver-plated decorative item rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
India; likely from Uttar Pradesh or Rajasthan, where silver-plated religious giftware is a major industry.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern production (Late 20th to 21st Century) following traditional Vedic design principles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The crispness of the texture and the specific oxidized finish are characteristic of modern export items.
Cultural Significance
Represents one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism, symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and the removal of hurdles in life.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. There appears to be some minor polish residue in the deepest crevices and slight 'brassing' (wearing away of the silver layer) on high-relief points like the trunk.
Value Estimate
$25 - $75 USD depending on size and base metal weight. This is a decorative giftware item rather than an investment-grade precious metal piece.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive silver polishes which will strip the thin plating. Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid water and detergents which can accelerate oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Solid Sterling Silver Murtis (marked 925, much higher value) or cold-cast bronze/resin versions (lighter, no metallic resonance).
Interesting Facts
Ganesha is often placed at the entrance of homes or on car dashboards as a protector and bringer of good luck for new beginnings.