Vintage Ceylon Ebony Elephant Sculpture — Hand-Carved with Inlaid Bone Eyes & Toenails

A handsome vintage hand-carved ebony elephant, made in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) — a solid, satisfyingly heavy carving of a walking elephant with trunk lowered. The carver captured fine detail throughout: incised trunk wrinkles and ear texture, inlaid bone eyes, and inlaid bone toenails, all set off by a smooth hand-rubbed satin finish that shows the wood's attractive natural grain.

These Anglo-Indian Ceylon ebony elephants have been prized by collectors since the early-to-mid 20th century. This is a substantial single example — a striking accent for a shelf, desk, mantel, or a collected, globally-inspired interior.

Details

• Origin: Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
• Material: Solid ebony, hand-carved, satin hand-rubbed finish
• Details: Inlaid bone eyes and toenails; incised trunk and ear detail
• Dimensions: 8"H × 8"L × 4¼"W
• Weight: 5 lb 7.7 oz (solid and heavy)

Condition

Good vintage condition. Four of the inlaid toenails are missing (shown in photos). No cracks or repairs noted. Rich, even patina throughout.

A one-of-a-kind carving — only one available.