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Embodying Indus Life

Elephant figurine head with painted designs from Harappa

It is unknown whether elephants were domesticated in the Indus Civilization. However, one of the few elephant figurines from Harappa is a head with large stylized ears and red and white stripes painted across the face. This may mirror the custom of decorating domesticated elephants (red and white are common colors) for ceremonies or rituals that is still practiced in South Asia. Elephant bones have also been found at Harappa.

Approximate dimensions (W x H(L) x D): 5.4 x 4.8 x 4.6 cm.

Animal Figurines
Elephant
Harappa
Photograph
Richard H. Meadow
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