Ganesha Statue - Antique Thai Style Bronze Ganesha Riding a Dragon - 20cm/8"

Ganesha Statue - Antique Thai Style Bronze Ganesha Riding a Dragon - 20cm/8"

Measures (Height) 20cm/9" x 25cm/10" (Length)

An expressively cast Antique Thai style bronze Ganesha riding a dragon - a symbol of power, widosm and divine mastery. 

In Hindu and Buddhist iconography, Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is widely revered as the remover of obstacles, the lord of wisdom, and the patron of arts and sciences.

This extraordinary bronze statue offers a rare and striking depiction—Ganesha riding a mythical dragon, merging divine intellect with the raw, untamed power of this legendary creature.

In Hindu and Buddhist iconography, Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is widely revered as the remover of obstacles, the lord of wisdom, and the patron of arts and sciences.

This extraordinary bronze statue offers a rare and striking depiction—Ganesha riding a mythical dragon, merging divine intellect with the raw, untamed power of this legendary creature.

A Unique Depiction of Ganesha

Most depictions of Ganesha show him riding his traditional mount, the mouse (Mushika), which represents humility and the ability to overcome even the smallest obstacles. However, in this rare interpretation, Ganesha is astride a dragon, a creature associated with strength, protection, and cosmic energy.

Dressed in an ornate headdress and regal attire, Ganesha is depicted in a contemplative yet authoritative posture, reinforcing his role as both a divine guide and a master of powerful forces. His hand gestures and facial expression exude wisdom and command, reminding us that true mastery lies in balancing intellect and strength.

Here Ganesha holds laddus, the name for Indian sweetmeats. Whilst some may interpret this as Ganesha simply having a sweet tooth or a (relatable) penchant for candy, it is no surprise that the sweet delicacies carry further meaning. These tasty treats represent the reward for a wisely-led life and the eternal sweetness that comes from a fulfilled experience. Dentists around the world will be delighted to hear that Ganesha is never depicted actually eating the sweetmeats, but this item of the deity does also show his parallels with everyday human life.

This relates to Ganesha’s status as a Vedic God, which means he does not forget even those who are not his devotees and instead looks out for everyone. This is communicated through his depiction as always looking upwards or at eye-level, as he is surveying all human life and is therefore not solely focussed on those praying to him.

Ganesha also holds the remnants of his broken tusk. The breaking of the tusk has several backstories. One instance suggests that it was shattered when Shiva cut the head off the elephant, prior to bestowing it onto Ganesha. Another writes that Ganesha's quill broke and he needed a writing instrument, try telling your boss that next time you try to write up a report with an elephant tusk because your computer crashed. Regardless of its multiple origins, the holding of the tusk represents less of a keepsake, and more of a depiction that our spirituality is more important than our outer bodies, meaning we must overcome the duality of the two as separate entities.

The direction of Ganesha's trunk has symbolic meaning. Here the trunk turns to Ganesha's left. This signifies the direction for success in the world. It is a position associated with grihastas, or householders.

The Symbolism of the Dragon in Hindu and Buddhist Art

Dragons hold deep symbolic significance across various Asian traditions, often representing cosmic forces, spiritual protection, and divine transformation. In this context, the dragon may symbolize:

• Power and Protection: The dragon is a guardian figure in many Hindu and Buddhist myths, protecting sacred teachings and warding off negative influences.
• Mastery Over Chaos: Ganesha, riding the dragon, symbolizes the harnessing of raw, untamed energy through wisdom and divine will.
• Spiritual Ascension: The dragon, often associated with the elements of water and air, represents movement between realms, signifying Ganesha’s ability to navigate both material and spiritual worlds.

This combination of Ganesha and the dragon conveys a profound balance between intelligence and strength, showing that wisdom is the true force that commands power.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

This bronze sculpture is an exquisite example of Southeast Asian craftsmanship, likely originating from Thailand, where Hindu and Buddhist influences have blended for centuries.

The dark patina and intricate detailing on the dragon’s body demonstrate the artistic mastery of traditional metalworkers.

Notably, the dragon’s rounded form resembles a ritual vessel, suggesting that this piece may have also served a ceremonial or functional purpose in religious rites. The decorative reliefs along its body hint at sacred narratives or protective motifs.

Why This Statue is a Powerful Addition to Any Collection

This unique depiction of Ganesha is more than just an artistic masterpiece—it is a symbol of wisdom, divine guidance, and the mastery of power. It makes an ideal centerpiece for:

• Spiritual spaces and altars, reinforcing wisdom and protection.
• Collectors of Hindu and Buddhist art, offering a rare and powerful representation of Ganesha.
• Home décor with a spiritual and cultural essence, embodying strength, intellect, and divine energy.

Conclusion

This Ganesha riding a dragon statue stands as a fusion of wisdom and power, reflecting the rich heritage of Southeast Asian religious art.

Whether admired for its artistic beauty or its deeper spiritual meaning, it is a timeless reminder that true strength is guided by knowledge, and true wisdom wields power with grace.

The distinctive patina of the piece is particularly delightful.

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