Harvard Art Museums

Nobleman and Trainer Mounted on an Elephant

Date

1700-1750

Medium

Ink and watercolor on paper.

Culture

Indian

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Institution

Harvard Art Museums

Seated at the base of the neck of an elephant is a Rajput nobleman, identified by the type of earring he wears and turban style. He carries an elephant goad (ankus) in his left hand, while his right is extends outward to balance him. His feet are secured through loops that attach to the elephant’s collar, which has four bells. Mounted on the back of the animal is the elephant trainer. He is bare chested and wears a turban. With his right hand, he holds onto the ropes that are tied around the elephant’s body, while his left carries a large mace that rests against his shoulder. The elephant’s trunk is curled inward, its ears forward, and its tusks have been trimmed down. Rajput Style, Kota School.

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