Composite Elephant

Unknown

early 17th century · Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper · Islamic Art

Rocks and animals that upon closer inspection reveal themselves to be composed of human and other figures are a common conceit in Islamic art. Female dancers and musicians in Indian garb have formed the legs, body, and tusks of the purple elephant here. Astride the beast are a noble figure with an elephant goad, acting as mahout; a female to the rear of him holds a cloth fan. This whimsical painting differs greatly from the detailed nature studies found in Mughal albums, the depiction of the elephant here being not the result of careful observation but rather a metaphoric representation of court pageantry.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 17th century

Medium

Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Louis E. and Theresa S. Seley Purchase Fund for Islamic Art, Rogers Fund, and Alastair B. Martin, Margaret Mushekian and Time-Life Inc. Gifts, 1985