Superb Ganesh accompanied by Mûshika, bronze work, early 19th century, India.

10cm x 8cm x 5.5cm
 
In Hinduism, Ganesh is the god who removes obstacles. He is also the god of wisdom, intelligence, education, and prudence, the patron of schools and knowledge workers. Recognizable by his elephant head, he is arguably the most revered god in India, and his aura touches the entire Indian subcontinent and Asia in general. He is the son of Shiva and Pârvatî, the consort of Siddhi (Success), Buddhi (Intellect), and Riddhî (Wealth).
 
Mûshika, in Hinduism, is the vâhana or vehicle of Ganesh. He looks like a rat.
He can, sometimes, symbolizes the god alone, as can the white bull Nandi for his father Shiva.
The two complement each other, the massive, powerful, and thoughtful elephant, the small, mobile, and mischievous rat, they have all the assets necessary to solve the problems of the world.
 
Superb patina, quality work.

Very heavy for its size.