The item is an elephant that seem somewhat hand carved and crafted with hand embedded beads and cut glass in the shapes of squares and diamonds all throughout the model. The top of the elephants back has been hand painted with a burgundy/reddish-brown color in which mini glass specs and beads has been delicately attached. Surrounding the beads and glass is an inlay of a non-metallic chain that illustrates gold toning. Around the eyes seems a coiled blue material that is also non-metallic yet shimmers like metal. The texture of the wood material is somewhat glazed or lacquered with few flaws as if hand made. Beneath the elephant on its tummy is a raised inscription of: "A INDIA" surrounded by a circle mark.
"A INDIA"
The maker of this piece is unknown; however, I believe the origins of this piece is an original from India. The height of the elephant stands at approximately 4.5", the length at roughly 5" and its width measurements at a supposed 2.5", the weight of this model holds at 192 grams or .192 kg.
The item of the product is very fragile in which extreme caution should be utilized to avoid damage as the beads, and all other attachments seems to be loose and may break off or fall off.
Specs:
Color: Mohogany and Burgundy/Reddish-Brown with hints of turquoise blue.
Weight: 192g or .192kg
Dimensions: L: 5" H: 4.5" W: 2.5"
Hand-Carved Beaded Elephant Figurine from India
Item Description
This decorative elephant figurine is a handcrafted and hand-embellished artifact, likely produced in India during the mid-to-late 20th century. Measuring approximately 5 inches long, 4.5 inches high, and 2.5 inches wide, and weighing 192 grams, the piece is composed of dark, polished wood with a high-gloss lacquered finish and elaborate ornamentation.
The back of the elephant is adorned with a burgundy/reddish-brown painted saddle area over which are embedded colorful glass tiles in square, rectangular, and diamond forms. These pieces are further highlighted with white and turquoise beads, coiled metallic-look thread, and gold-toned non-metallic chain trim.
The facial and trunk details include elaborate sequin-style decoration and mirrored glass elements arranged in traditional Indian mosaic patterns. The craftsmanship suggests it was produced in a region of India known for decorative handicraftsâpossibly Rajasthan or Gujaratâwhere such bejeweled wooden figures are part of both folk art and souvenir production.
Markings and Origin
On the underside of the piece is a raised inscription inside a circle:
âA INDIAâ
This mark suggests export from India, likely sometime between the 1960s and 1980s when tourist-oriented crafts from India became widely available abroad. The "A" above "India" may indicate a regional workshop or artisan designation, but it is not a documented manufacturerâs hallmark.
Craftsmanship and Materials
Cultural Context
Elephants hold cultural and religious significance in India and are often represented in decorative and ceremonial art. In Hinduism, the elephant-headed deity Ganesha symbolizes wisdom and good fortune. Bejeweled wooden elephants such as this one are common gifts and home accents, symbolizing protection and strength.
The level of decoration, fine glasswork, and hand-beading in this example elevate it beyond simple tourist fare into the realm of collectible Indian folk art.
Estimated Value
Based on comparable examples sold online and through decorative arts dealers, this piece would likely fall in the following value range:
Note: The fragility of the embellishments and evidence of some bead loss or surface wear may affect its resale desirability among collectors.
Recommendation
While not a museum-grade artifact, this elephant is a charming and well-executed example of mid-century Indian artisan export. It holds decorative and cultural value, particularly for collectors of global folk art, ethnic décor, or elephant-themed collections.
For those seeking a professional valuation, especially if part of a larger Indian art or export collection, a certified appraiser familiar with South Asian decorative arts could provide further insight.