Striding Elephant with Raised Trunk
Sculpture; miniature animal figurine on integrated wooden plinth • Unidentified artisan, likely Japanese (Meiji/Taisho period) or Indian (Anglo-Indian export school).
Style & Movement
Naturalism; specifically the genre of 'Okimono' or Victorian-era export ivory carving.
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved elephant ivory (as indicated by visible Schreger lines/cross-hatching patterns) with pigment-set eyes and a carved exotic hardwood base.
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (Meiji/Taisho era in Japan or British Raj period for the export market).
Dimensions & Format
Miniature; approximately 2 inches high by 2 inches length horizontally oriented on wood base.
Subject Description
A naturalistic representation of an Asian elephant in mid-stride with its trunk curled upward, a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The figure exhibits detailed skin folds and muscular tension.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible 'checking' or hairline age cracks on the rump and back, consistent with organic material desiccation.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD (Note: Market value is severely restricted by CITES regulations and international ivory trade bans).
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD, subject to legal compliance and proof of antiquity (pre-1947 or de minimis exemptions).
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a Grand Tour souvenir or high-end export decorative object; possibly part of a private collection for several decades.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the late 19th-century fascination with exoticism and high-quality ivory craftsmanship intended for the Western mantelpiece or curio cabinet.
Notable Features
Distinctive Schreger lines visible on the surface confirming authentic ivory (vs. bone or resin); well-articulated anatomical features for such a small scale.
Condition Issues
Natural age-related cracking (checking) on the flank; slight surface yellowing; minor dust accumulation in recessed carved areas.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a stable environment (45-55% RH) to prevent further cracking. Dust with a dry, soft brush only. Avoid chemical cleaners or direct sunlight.
Collector Notes
Ivory antique. 2 in x 2 in ,