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Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Honolulu, Hawai‘i. (Photo: David Franzen, 2014.)
Enamelled Copper Crane Figurine
Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Honolulu, Hawai‘i. (Photo: David Franzen, 2014.)
Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Honolulu, Hawai‘i. (Photo: David Franzen, 2014.)
Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Honolulu, Hawai‘i. (Photo: David Franzen, 2014.)

Enamelled Copper Crane Figurine

Date20th century
MediumEnameled copper alloy
DimensionsOverall: 22 x 11 3/4 in. (55.9 x 29.8cm)
ClassificationsMetalwork
Object number54.46.1
DescriptionThis sculpture of a crane (one of a pair) was created in Jaipur in the northeastern Indian state of Rajasthan in the twentieth century. It stands erect with both feet firmly planted on its circular stand. A feather-like texture is delicately applied to its copper surface in enamel.

This noble bird may be a sarus crane, a species found throughout the northern and northwest lowlands of India. These cranes hold a particular significance in India, where they are regarded as sacred. Traditionally believed to mate for life, sarus cranes represent unconditional love and good fortune. According to Indian mythology, when one mate dies, the other will perish, refusing to eat or drink.

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