Preparatory Drawing of a Chained Elephant Drinking Water
18th century
Description
The large elephant is composed of red and black lines that demonstrate the various stages of the drawing process, from initial sketches to more detailed inclusions. The elephant wears a cloth-saddle that is attached to a large harness which wraps around the elephant, behind its front legs. A bell, faintly drawn in red, hangs from the harness. The elephant also wears a collar, which the driver (mahout) would tuck his feet under to balance. The animal’s long trunk reaches into a tall container of water. All four of its legs are chained. On the left side is a sketch of a male figure, down to his torso. Rajput Style, Kota School.
Dimensions
13.2 x 25 cm (5 3/16 x 9 13/16 in.)
Provenance
Stuart Cary Welch (by 1969 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of temporary loan to Museum in 1969.
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