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Overview
A vintage Indian hand-carved scene of a working elephant pulling a log, mounted on a stepped wooden base. The elephant wears a richly carved blanket with a bird in raised relief, framed by scrolling vines, bands of pattern and a fringed edge. A round flower medallion decorates its forehead, and it has white tusks, a lowered trunk and a curled tail. The carving is intricate all over, with a jeweled headpiece and tassels on the head, fine lines across the trunk, and leaf patterns and banded anklets carved down each leg. Behind it sits a long, faceted log carved on every side with leaf and wave patterns, with a squared end that has a small drilled hole. The light honey-colored carving stands out against the darker base, and the piece suits a mantel, sideboard, desk or display cabinet.
Background
Carved scenes of elephants hauling timber are a popular subject in Indian woodcarving, and the very fine, crisp detail on this piece is typical of carving from Mysore in South India. The elephant and log are in a light, heavy carved wood that may be sandalwood, though the wood has not been tested. They are fixed with screws to a dark hardwood base. In similar pieces a rope or chain runs from the elephant to the hole in the log; none is present here. The piece is unsigned, and there is a yellow mark on the underside of the base.
Condition
Good vintage condition with no breaks or repairs to the elephant or log. There are water stains on the top of the base between the elephant and the log, light wear to the base edges, and small drying lines on the underside. The white tusks are inserts, and their material has not been tested. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
The piece measures 17.6 x 5.6 x 9.0 inches (L x D x H) and weighs about 7 lb 13.4 oz.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
