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Title Miniature ivory Mahratta soldier
Nationality Indian
Period early 19th century
Sold

This little figure (about 2.75cm tall), made of elephant ivory, would have been fixed to a base, viz the two cut-off ivory pegs in his heels, probably as a supporter for a Mahratta dignitary in a palanquin on an elephant, or some such. There is a hole in his hand, where he would have held a spear.

There is an outside chance that it is an early chess piece, perhaps a pawn. It is beautifully carved and, apart from the fact that the base and spear are missing, is in good shape.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Ephemera : Sculpture : Indian : 19th Century]

testimonials

Hanger arrived safe and sound 11.30ish today. Very pleased, it's as expected. Your excellent pics make all the difference in terms of confident buying over the net. As a matter of interest, the frog, which as you said is very a/f, is, as you thought, 'spot on'. On closer inspection it is a mk.1 Naval Frog, designated 'for cutlasses'. Date seems around 1860ish give or take.

By the way, I think your site is very user friendly. Seems to work much better than many and up to date, a rarity!!!

C W, UK, 20.04.2006

I am more and more pleased with the sword, and am wondering whether to do an article on it...

M M, UK, 04.11.2005

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