Pair of silver elephants, Qing dynasty (1644 - 1912).

Pair of elephant figures holding a vase, made of silver pieces assembled together. The decoration is carved in relief, embossed and detailed in gilded silver. Both elephants are standing on all four legs with their heads tilted to one side (one to the left and the other to the right) and their trunks facing backwards with their ruyi-shaped trunks pointing upwards. The horns, nails and ears are gilded, as is much of the relief. On its back is a luxurious lotus tapestry and above this is a stand, also decorated with lotuses, on which the vase is supported. The structure is attached to the elephant's body and trunk by means of pearly strings and flowers. The vase stands on a lotus base and is shaped in antique bronze with engravings depicting ruyi, taotie and finally a handle on each side in the shape of a mythological animal holding two discs. 

These figures represent the good rule of a wise emperor. The word 象 (xiang) means elephant and at the same time wisdom. The word 瓶 (ping) means vase and at the same time peace. In the halls and throne rooms of the imperial palaces of the Qing dynasty there were elephant figures with vases and they were associated with strength, wisdom and longevity. Elephants are also auspicious animals in the Buddhist religion.

Size: 22 x 15 x 8 cm; Weight: 1340 g

Provenance: 

Private collection of a German diplomat, later inherited by the family. He worked as a diplomat in China and lived in Beijing between 1890 and 1900. The attached photographs were taken during his stay. Currently in a European collection.