Page 227 - Bonhams May 12 16 London

211 A highly powerful symbol in Chinese art, the elephant embodies
A FINE PAIR OF CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL SEATED ELEPHANTS auspicious connotations related to Buddhism, being associated with
Qianlong/Jiaqing the birth of the Buddha and thus with wisdom, monarchy and strength.
Each seated on its hind legs, forelegs straight, and head with almond In addition, emerging from muddy waters, the lotus occurring on the
eyes looking forward, the trunk curled between long tusks, the striated saddle is emblematic of spiritual beauty and a metaphor for perfection,
white body caparisoned with beaded bridle, harness, and a saddle rug truth and serenity.
decorated with ruyi-heads and lotus blooms.
Each 8.8cm (3 1/2in) high (2). Seated cloisonné enamel elephants are quite rare. Two examples of
standing elephants enamelled in a related colour palette and decorated
£20,000 - 30,000 CNY180,000 - 280,000 with lotus flowers are illustrated in the Compendium Collection of the
HK$220,000 - 330,000 Palace Museum. Enamelled wares, Beijing, 2010, vol. 4, pl. 84 and 85.

清乾隆/嘉慶 銅胎掐絲琺瑯瑞象 一對