Maharashtra
brass alloy
A finely cast brass figure of a caparisoned elephant with a howdah. The caparisoned elephant is adorned with head and neck ornaments and has a lovely curled trunk. Seated on the elephant is a mahout carrying an ankush (elephant goad) and an upturned shield. A ritual throne forms the back half of the howdah, seated upon which is Lord Khandoba and his consort Mhalsa.
Originally the elephant was the vahana or vehicle of god Indra. Later it became associated with deities such as Lakshmi and Danteshwari (Durga). In art and literature it became a symbol of power and might and was associated with royalty and deities. Elephant figures from Maharashtra and Karnataka are usually associated with Khandoba with or without his consort Mhalsa. In the northern portion of Kerala, the Malabar region, elephant figures are usually associated with Aiyanar, Lord of the Bhutas. In most cases the elephant is portrayed very realistically with neck chains of studded jewellery and bells. A saddle blanket is usually engraved with swirling floral or geometric designs.
Size (cms): 28.5 (H) x 22.9 (W) x 14 (D)
Size (inches): 11.2 (H) x 9 (W) x 5.5 (D)
