Gold ornament in the shape of an elephant

This miniature cast gold ornament in the shape of an elephant is an example of Javanese goldwork from the pre-classical to the central and east Javanese periods. Indo-Javanese period ornaments frequently take on forms inspired by Hindu-Buddhist iconography such as the lotus, Kala and Hanuman figures. The level of sophistication reached its peak in this period during which a combination of wax casting and goldwork produced objects with incredible detailing.