Antique toy elephant

The left ear is broken; please look closely at the photos. This brass figurine depicts a traditional Indian elephant accompanied by its rider, a motif common in regional folk art and among toys intended for temples. Made using the lost-wax casting technique—a traditional method in Indian metallurgy—this piece features stylized engravings as well as a rustic patina. Historically, these wheel-mounted toys served as both decorative objects and playthings; they often reflect the cultural importance of the elephant within Indian royalty and during religious processions. Collectors value these pieces for their folk-art aesthetics, their sturdiness, and the charm of their mechanical wheel-equipped design. Market value is determined by the complexity of the metalwork, the antiquity of the patina, and the complete condition of the wheeled base. It is a classic example of tribal or regional Indian metalwork.

Estimate:£125.63

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