The imposing beauty of the elephant and the numerous auspicious attributes associated with its image make its presence and importance in decorative art effective , especially when it personifies the Hindu god Ganesha .
Historically, this large mammal has always been synonymous with protection and strength in Asian culture . And it was used for military and commercial purposes, such as cargo transport. However, the ability to attract luck, wisdom and prosperity that characterize its spiritual symbology made it an extremely venerated animal beyond its physical capabilities.
According to Feng Shui, the elephant is a harmonious element for decoration.
According to the Puranas - ancient texts of the sacred literature of Hinduism and Jainism that narrate the history of the universe -, Ganesha is the son of Shiva , god of destruction and regeneration, and Parvati , goddess of love and fertility.
Its story begins with the return of Shiva after a long meditative retreat - the period in which Parvati gave birth. Unaware of his son's birth, Shiva came across the boy protecting Parvati's bathroom, preventing his entry.
Ganesha is the Lord of Good Fortune and attracts prosperity through his image.
Angered, Shiva summoned his bhutaganas (demons) and together they fought Ganesha , who valiantly resisted. However, the god Vishnu intervened in the form of Maya , distracting Ganesha and enabling Shiva to cut off his head. Upon leaving the bath, Parvati clarified the boy's existence, making him repent and seek a new head.
The elephant was the first animal found and, given its relevance and sacred symbology , its head was chosen. Shiva also interceded for Ganesha 's life to the gods Brahma and Vishnu, who made him one of the most worshiped Hindu gods .
To invoke the wisdom of Ganesha, the mantra Om is chanted.
The iconography that constitutes the image of Ganesha varies according to the artist's interpretation, but each detail attributed is rich in spiritual meanings. The elephant's head , for example, represents wisdom and knowledge obtained through listening and reflection - nevertheless it is considered patron of science, arts and letters.
The large belly , in particular, not only expresses generosity and acceptance, but also configures the cosmos. In more traditional characterizations, it presents the Kundalini (serpent or sacred energy thread that balances the chakras) tied in this region.
Ganesha's presence in the environment ensures divine protection in adversity.
The a bhaya mudra , gesture of protection and fearlessness; the symbol of the Om mantra ; the laddus (Indian sweets); the figure of the god Kroncha (rat), as Ganesha's vahana (vehicle); as well as the broken tusk ( ekadanta ), demonstrating sacrifice and devotion are other significant elements that can figure his image in decorative art .
Both the representation of the god Ganesha and the use of the elephant in the decoration arouse good energies, being seen as harmonic figures for Feng Shui - an ancient art that analyzes the vital energy in environments.
Like Muladhara, Ganesha's belly symbolizes the cosmos and divine strength.
For each type of environment and purpose there is a category of art that corresponds in a balanced way, such as sculptures , light sources , masks , paintings , censers , mandalas , boxes , stools , panels , cushion covers and mobiles .
Incorporating them into the decoration at key energy circulation points such as doors, windows and gardens are the most effective ways to achieve the lucky essence of decorative elephants and Ganesha 's ability to remove obstacles .
Finding decorative art that matches your energy is easier than you might think. In our online store we show you the way!
Namaste!
Milene Sousa - Art & Tune
