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19th C. BALINESE ELEPHANT PAINTING

Offered by: MWM Design Interiors

Description
Listing Description – 19th-Century Balinese White Elephant Allegorical Painting, Color on Cloth with Gilt
An exquisite and richly symbolic 19th-century Balinese painting, rendered in vibrant pigments and delicate gilt highlights on cloth, beautifully framed in black with a natural matte finish. Though the artist remains unknown, the mastery of composition and spiritual nuance speaks to a deeply rooted artistic tradition of ceremonial storytelling and reverence for the divine.

At the heart of the scene is a majestic white elephant, draped in elaborate gilded trappings, signifying purity, strength, and sacred power within Southeast Asian and Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. Atop its haunches kneels a smiling attendant, while its noble head is crowned by a benevolent ceremonial figure, shown issuing life-giving water toward a gathered crowd with open arms—an allegorical gesture of blessing, abundance, and spiritual transmission.

The scene unfolds in a lush pastoral setting, with gently rolling terrain and mist-shrouded mountains in the distance, evoking the timeless beauty of the Balinese landscape and a sense of serene divinity.

This painting is a rare and captivating cultural artifact, ideal for collectors of Asian art, spiritual symbolism, and antique textiles. Its radiant color, symbolic depth, and atmospheric presence make it a true standout in any refined setting.

Offered by MWM DESIGN INTERIORS, purveyors of museum-quality decorative arts, fine furniture, and curated global antiquities for the most discerning clientele.

More Information

Origin:	Indonesia
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Painting, wooden frame with gold gilt, designer matting and framing. Ready to hang.
Condition:	Good. Restored with new cloth matte, minor wear on wooden frame, wear to original painted surface. Refinishing on the piece.
Creation Date:	1955
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental
Dealer Reference #:	864_BALINESE ELEPHANT
Incollect Reference #:	755024

Dimensions

W.	29.25 in;	H.	26.5 in;	D.	5 in;
W.	74.3 cm;	H.	67.31 cm;	D.	12.7 cm;

Message from Seller:

Florence-based asset management for a global clientele. MWM Design Interiors and Luxury Asset Management. Bespoke management and strategic global placement for fine art, antiques, and luxury collectibles. Contact Director Karon Morono at km@mwmdesigninteriors.com, US: 310.564.3048, or Italy: 39.324.076.1924 for discreet, full-service support tailored to your collection