Understanding Sculptures of Ganapati, the Elephant headed God of the Hoysala Period: A Multi-Dimensional Approach

Abstract

A systematic approach to a subject like dance in sculptures or geometry involved in sculptures of Ganapati requires a study of its principles and practice at an empirical level through the application of analytical techniques from the first step. The next step is the synthesis of the elements of art experience into an intuitive one and response to beauty and truth that are always the very core of a genuine art experience. The current paper deals with the understanding of sculptures from a multidimensional perspective. Four Ganapati sculptures at Halebid have been identified and analysed. The research involves a systematic approach towards the principles as well as a current understanding of the shastric prescriptions. An attempt has been made to understand the sculptures with special reference to Ganapati through the Medias comprising of Ancient Indian Literature, elements of iconology, Bharata’s Natyashastra and other texts and a scientific approach to the significance of the trunk as the Golden Spiral. The paper concludes shedding light on how a multidimensional approach is essential to understand the micro nuances of a sculpture.