Elephant carving, India, early 20th century
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Title |
Elephant carving, India, early 20th century |
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Description |
Wood carving; 10 cm. high. This handmade, highly polished carving shows an elephant clothed in a very ornate blanket and headcovering. This carving may be intended to represent a royal mount from the Elephant Festival, held each spring in Jaipur. The Jataka stories of Buddhism refer to the tradition of Hastimangala (the Elephant Festival). A royal mount from time immemorial, the elephant has also been a symbol of strength and wealth. For the Rajput kings, elephants were of special significance, not only during war but also during royal festivities. Nishan-ka-hathi, the flag carrier, led processions. The king always mounted a caparisoned elephant. Special hunting programs and elephant fights were organized to entertain royal guests. Jaipur was a favorite with the important personalities of the British Raj, and the Maharajas always arranged for their guests of honor to ride elephants up to the Amber palace. Even today, the mahouts take tourists up to the Amber Palace on elephant back. |
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Subject |
Wood-carving--India.; Elephants in art.; Elephants--India.; Festivals--India--Jaipur. |
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Date |
[19--] |
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Format |
JPEG |
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Rights |
Image © Krannert Art Museum Giertz Education Center. |
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Replicas and Objects of the Giertz Education Center, Krannert Art Museum
