Kota Ruler Watches an Elephant Combat
18th century
Description
The drawing features an elephant combat gone awry. The royal spectacle of an elephant combat consists of two elephants fighting with a wall in between. The wall is intended to prevent fatal or severe injury to the elephants. However, in this drawing, one of the elephants has managed to topple over the wall, crushing the other elephant. The impact of the elephant’s force is demonstrated through the swinging bells on the elephant and the unraveling of the elephant driver’s (mahout), turban. The attendants at the scene carry spears as well as charkhi, fireworks that are intended to scare and control the elephant. In the top register, a ruler watches the spectacle unfold from a balcony. His royal status is symbolized by the halo around his head. Rajput Style, Kota School.
Dimensions
31.2 x 67.5 cm (12 5/16 x 26 9/16 in.)
Provenance
Stuart Cary Welch (by 1999 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of long-term loan to Museum in 1999.
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