The tradition of painting elephants started in the medieval age with the Mughals, who were fascinated by the elephant. Migrating from the remote Central Asian state of Farghana, they did not have much familiarity with this huge, strange-looking animal. They were impressed with its sharp intelligence, faithful nature, and indispensability in the battlefield. Here in a typical Mughal representation the elephant is richly and tastefully caparisoned, fit for a royal. Such animals were used for ceremonial rides, shikar, sport etc.
References:
Sivaramamurti C. Birds and Animals in Indian Sculpture: New Delhi, National Museum, 1974.
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