Marble Elephants Door Base - Early 19th Century

This early 19th century carved marble architectural fragment was originally part of an Indian door - specifically the base of the frame uprights. These were hand carved from marble to stop any monsoon waters reaching the wooden doors. These were a set of 6 (3 doors) and almost certainly came from a decommissioned temple.  This carved base features a row of three elephants carved in high relief. Each elephant is individually modelled with a curled trunk, painted eyes and traces of its original red and white decoration.

The elephants have a scrolling foliate design continuing along the reverse. Centuries of weathering, surface wear and losses to the original paint give the marble a wonderfully aged appearance. We mounted this on a discreet iron stand to keep it stood upright. It makes a striking sculptural display piece and piece of history. 

• Origin: India
• Date: Early 19th century
• Materials: Hand carved marble with original painted decoration
• Features: Three elephants carved in high relief; curled trunks; traces of original red, white and blue paint; carved scrolling decoration to the reverse; mounted on iron stands
• Condition: Antique condition with extensive surface wear, weathering, chips and losses to the original painted decoration, consistent with age
• Dimensions: W58 x D33 x H32 cm