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VINTAGE LARGE INDIAN CARVED
WOOD & CERAMIC CIRCUS ELEPHANT
WITH TOP STORAGE COMPARTMENT
Available for purchase is a large elephant figure likely made in India or possibly Burma (now Myanmar). In Indian and Burmese culture, the elephant is a powerful symbol representing wisdom, strength, good luck, peace, and prosperity. However, I believe this particular piece to be a rendition of a circus elephant, based on its pose and the style of the base (which resembles a circus pedestal). The elephant and stand appear to be carved of wood that was subsequently coated with a clay or ceramic-like substance, then decorated with polychrome paints. When tapped, it rings like it's made of ceramic but the wood can clearly be seen underneath the outer layer in a crack of the base.This large elephant stands about 16" tall to the top of the houda (riding seat) on top of the back. The round base is approximately 10" in diameter. Interestingly, the houda can be removed to reveal a storage compartment inside. This compartment is also lined with a dried clay-like substance. The compartment is not very large, perhaps intended as a place to hide money or valuables. I purchased this elephant at a fine estate sale last year. The previous owners travelled the world and had many unusual items. I'm not sure how old this piece is, but it definitely has some age. Most likely, this elephant was made during the early or mid-20th century.As I researched this piece, I wondered how common circuses were in India. Apparently, the first official India Circus was in 1880. Circuses became increasingly popular during the 20th century when as many as 50 different circus companies were touring India. During the early years, circuses weredominated by animal acts and lacked human performances.The most attractive features of any Indian circus were the feats performed by lions, tigers, elephants, and other animals. Today, government regulations ban the use of most animals in Indian circus acts.Condition of this large elephant figure is generally VERY GOOD, considering its age. The paint has some wear and there are a few nicks, which add to the antique look of the piece. The wood base has a crack (see photo) that doesn't threaten the structural integrity of the figure. Overall, this unusual elephant figure looks fantastic and displays well. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase.If you collect Indian art or circus memorabilia, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering. This piece is a one-of-a-kind item and I can't find any other similar examples pictured online. My Buy It Now price of $109 seems like a bargain for this unique and special piece. So, buy this item now before someone else beats you to the deal!While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.See my other listings for more great items!
Large Size - Shown with Pepsi Can for Scale
Closeup of Elephant Head
Closeup of Circus Pedestal Base
Front View
Opposite Side View
Rear View
Top View
Showing Compartment Cover Removed
Inside Lined with Sandy Clay-Like Material
Closeup of Compartment Cover
Underside of Base
Crack in Base Showing Wood Under Layer of Ceramic Like Material
Payment is due immediately after purchase. Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price. E-bay has also started charging sales tax in several other states recently, something beyond my control. DUE TO THE LARGE SIZE OF THIS ITEM, I AM LIMITING SALES TO U.S. BUYERS ONLY.
If you're the lucky buyer of this large elephant figure, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged via UPS Ground, USPS Ground Advantage, or Priority Mail (your choice). Shipping will be actual charges from zip code 22980 (packaged weight between 19 and 20 pounds). IT'S HEAVY! Use the shipping calculator to determine exact shipping cost to your location. NO INTERNATIONAL BUYERS PLEASE!
E-bay no longer allows sellers to offer buyers the option of purchasing shipping insurance. I will insure this item at my own expense.
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