Elephant Goad (Ankus)
Not on view
A goad is carried by the mahout or elephant driver. The sharp point and hook was used to guide the animal to behave or move in a specific way, making it a crucial tool for hunting expeditions. The steel blade here features fantastical creatures, while the brass butt is formed by a dog-like animal issuing from a tiger’s mouth. Since it is ornately decorated, it may have also been intended for display in ceremonial processions.
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