Unusual 1940-1950s French Papier-mâché Model Elephant

Unusual 1940-1950’s French Papier-mâché Model Elephant * French Mid Century 1940-1950’s * Some repairs * Toes are constructed from small shells * Tusks are wood * Real Statement Piece * Unique Table Top Decoration * Due to age and mode of construction very few of these are still in existence I'm quite sure it was being born in Africa and spending my early years there that has made elephants particularly special and significant to me … but perhaps it was also because I was thoroughly enchanted by the wonderful stories of Barbar the sartorially elegant and splendid King of the Elephants. I certainly have a very soft spot for this gorgeous chap and suspect that he originally had a mechanism which would give him a 'voice' to announce his presence but sadly this is no longer evident.