NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, offers thousands of limited edition and one-of-a-kind gifts, jewelry, and home decor treasures handmade by master artists and artisans throughout the world. Ganesha appears infused in Balinese artistry - his inspired image immortalized in albesia wood by Wayan Gandung. The Hindu deity's wise and noble face is accompanied by a feast of colorful patterns, which Gandung elegantly paints with acrylics. Ganesha, according to Hindu beliefs, bears the head of an elephant and the body of a man. He is an icon of generosity and wisdom, believed to dispel the occult forces that bring disaster upon humankind. This magnificent mask features detachable parts. Artisan Info: "My name is Wayan Gandung, and I was born in 1965. I started to learn woodcarving when I was just six years old, together with other children. When I was young, I never thought that one day I would be a sculptor. "As a child, I never thought it possible to become an artist. I come from a farming family and it was hard to find time to learn or to buy materials. I was lucky to have my father, for he was able to carve and he taught me how to carve. During this time it was hard to focus seriously on carving, because we had to look after our two cows and also work in the rice fields. Times were hard then, but I had a strong support from my parents. Since 1995, carving has become the main sustenance for my family. "I enjoy working with Novica because my work can reach people outside
