Rao Bhao Singh Riding an Elephant
In this Mughal-style rendering of a royal elephant portrait, we see the ruler of Bundi, Bhao Singh (r. 1658–81), assuming the role of a mahout (keeper) commanding his prize elephant with a large goad (ankus). He sits astride the animal’s shoulders, his legs secured under the ears. The elephant’s rich caparisoning—including a rug, chains and bells, and tusks banded in gold—indicate his high rank in the royal stables. Two keepers bearing a restraining spear and charkha (a Catherine-wheel type of firecracker stick) walk ahead. The elephant’s eye is heightened in red and gold leaf, and his temporal gland is highlighted with a crescent mark. The deep green ground is sprinkled with flowers. Such formal paintings served as important records of the most valued members of the royal stables.
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