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A collection of elephant figurines in various naturalistic and stylised poses, constructed from a variety of materials including hardwoods and carved stone. The assortment includes figures hand-carved from dark-stained timbers, medium-toned rosewood or teak style woods, and lighter-grained materials. Several examples feature inset white tusks, possibly made of bone or plastic. A notable central figure is carved from a dark, mottled grey stone, possibly soapstone or chlorite schist, depicting an elephant with a decorative howdah or rider on its back. Another stylised figure is rendered in a seated, anthropomorphic pose with a high-gloss polished finish. The carvings vary in origin, displaying characteristics typical of 20th-century decorative work from South Asia and East Africa. No manufacturer marks, artist signatures, or labels are visible on the exterior surfaces of the figurines.
Condition report:
The collection is in as-found condition with visible signs of age and display wear. Multiple figurines are missing one or both tusks, including the large wooden elephant in the centre-left and several smaller figures in the foreground (photo 1). Surface scuffs, scratches, and dust accumulation are present across the group. One small wooden elephant in the foreground is lying on its side, and the stone elephant shows surface abrasions and white residue within the carved crevices (photo 3).
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