A BASTAR BRONZE OF UNIQUE ELEPHANT WITH GODDESS ON SWINGA BASTAR BRONZE OF UNIQUE ELEPHANT WITH GODDESS ON SWINGBronzeIndia, 19th-20th centuryA very rare piece in complete condition. The elephant has powerful columnar legs and large slanted ears, the eyes are relatively narrow. Through the forehead runs a band, which merges into the long narrow trunk. The tusk of the gaja are cut off and taken,. The mahout sits behind the elephant’s head. On the back of the elephant’s body is the howdah a kind of basket where the goddess is hanging with chains mid air supported by crossbar that is attached to the roof. The attributes the goddess holds are a bit vague, a crooked dagger and a tribe (muth), but could also be an ax (tangi). Presumably it is a female deity, a “Mauli Devi”, a “Divine Mother”. The pointed roof of the howdah, which is plugged in and has no floor is braided, shows a little window. The roof is surrounded by hanging “tassels”. The feet of the elephant are edged and studded.Dimension: HEIGHT 35.5 CMCondition: Very good condition a part from underneath where the casting core is visible. The patina is heavy.Provenance: Collection of an Indian gentleman