Grey Marble sculpture of an Elephant

Grey Marble Sculpture of an Elephant

This elegant grey marble sculpture depicts an elephant with its trunk playfully raised, perfectly capturing the majesty and grace of nature’s gentle giant. Dating from the late 19th century, the piece embodies the refined taste and technical mastery associated with French decorative arts of the period.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1880
Material: Grey marble, mounted on Portoro marble base

Dimensions: Height: 33 cm (13 ins); Width: 33 cm (13 ins); Depth: 17 cm (6.7 ins)

Condition: Excellent; slight signs of age consistent with period

French decorative sculpture from the late 1800s is renowned for its naturalistic attention to detail and exceptional selection of materials. This grey marble sculpture of an elephant shares stylistic affinities with examples found in eminent museums and grand European collections, where animalier subjects were celebrated for both their artistic merit and symbolic significance during the Belle Époque.

Notable Features:

• Expertly carved elephant figure, showcasing subtle texturing and realistic anatomical forms.
• Stately Portoro marble base adds contrast and highlights the main subject.
• Raised trunk, an auspicious symbol in both European and Asian decorative traditions.
• Exemplifies the period’s fascination with exotic fauna and mastery of hardstone carving.

Distinguished by its harmonious proportions and lifelike presence, this marble sculpture stands as a testament to nineteenth-century French craftsmanship. The choice of richly veined grey marble is particularly attractive, whilst the Portoro marble plinth enhances its sense of quality and exclusivity. Pieces of this type and calibre remain highly sought after among collectors of animalier and fine decorative sculpture.

This grey marble elephant sculpture is not only a rare and desirable collector’s item but also versatile enough to serve as a striking focal point for any display or interior scheme. Its timeless aesthetic and connection to a celebrated period of French design make it a distinguished addition to any discerning collection.