Bone Inlay Elephant Appraisal

Anglo-Indian Rosewood and Bone Inlay Processional Elephant on Pedestal

This is a highly ornate decorative sculpture featuring a processional elephant, likely crafted in the Anglo-Indian Hoshiarpur style. The elephant is hand-carved from a dense, dark-toned wood, appearing to be rosewood or sheesham, and is mounted on a substantial, tiered wooden plinth. The carving depicts the elephant in a walking stance, adorned with elaborate ceremonial trappings. These include a large saddlecloth (jhul) with intricate floral and foliate bone or mother-of-pearl inlay work, featuring a central medallion and scrollwork borders. The elephant also wears a decorative headpiece (caparison) with matching inlay, ankle bands, and is fitted with cream-colored tusks tipped with brass-colored metal caps. The craftsmanship suggests a high level of skill, typical of late 19th-century to mid-20th-century Indian decorative arts intended for export or the colonial market. The wood exhibits a rich, warm patina with a polished finish. In terms of condition, the piece appears well-maintained, though close inspection might reveal minor shrinkage cracks typical of aged wood or small losses to the delicate inlay pieces. The pedestal is constructed with a complex architectural, stepped design that provides a dramatic base, though it may be a later addition or separate component designed to complement the figure.