The elephant

This magnificent beast of burden from India was the subject of many tapestries that were popular in the late 19th Century. Crafted in an oriental style, these royal elephants were based on the original designs of Jean A. Couderc. “The Elephant” is one of Couderc’s most engaging works of art. It features a majestic Indian elephant transporting the maharaja through the jungle. The border is a mix of oriental and Indian embellishments in a unique mixture of colors. Rich browns, sage and creams mix with gold, marigold and rust. First woven in 1844 at Aubusson for the Industrial Exhibition, the original is on permanent exhibit at the Musee du Louvre in Paris. This tapestry is lined and has a tunnel for easy hanging.