Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c9.46

v1.c9.46

*Prasanna-Gaṇapati.* This Gaṇapati is described as a standing figure which has either a few bends in the body or is perfectly erect. One authority says that the figure should be *abhaṅga*, while another, says that it should be *samabhaṅga*. The bends, when found, are generally three. The seat or pedastal upon which this figure should stand is the *padmāsana*. This Gaṇēśa has to be scarlet in colour like the rising sun, and should be draped in red cloth. In two of his hands he should hold the *pāśa* and *aṅkuśa*, while the remaining two are to be one in the *varada* and the other in the *abhaya* pose. In regard to this, however, there is generally a difference observable between what is found in the actual sculptures and the description given in books. Prasanna-Gaṇapati is not seen in actual sculptures, to have two of his hands in the *varada* and *abhaya* poses, but is made to hold in them a *danta* and a *mōdaka* respectively, the latter of these being represented as if it is being picked up with the trunk, to be lifted and put into the mouth.