Mode of capturing wild elephants in Ceylon: taming a wild elephant, 1864. Creator: Unknown

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Mode of capturing wild elephants in Ceylon: taming a wild elephant, 1864. Creator: Unknown

Mode of capturing wild elephants in Ceylon: taming a wild elephant, 1864. Engraving of a photograph...of the great elephant-catching expedition to a place called Ebbewellepittia...so as to afford the utmost sport and entertainment to their European visitors...Nothing was more remarkable than the...kind consideration shown by the tame elephants in their treatment of the young wild ones...During the process of noosing a young one they would try and coax him into obedience by stroking him with their trunks...When the noosed elephant had remained tied for a few hours, and his spirit was somewhat broken, he was led down to the river between two of the tame ones, being firmly secured by ropes which were passed round his neck and the necks of his conductors. In one case an elephant more refractory than the rest required an escort of five tame ones to lead him to the river. Here the poor animals were able at last to slake their burning thirst and lave their heated bodies in the fresh, cool water of the river which they drank and drank again with ever-renewed avidity'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864

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Media ID 38073819

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Captive Captives Captivity Ceylon Ceylonese Elephant Indian Elephant Indian Elephants Mahout Mahouts Rope Ropes Sri Lanka Sri Lankan Tame Taming Wild

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> Asia > Sri Lanka > Related Images

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Art > Entertainment

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the ancient mode of capturing wild elephants in Ceylon, specifically the taming process that took place in 1864. The engraving depicts a scene from a great elephant-catching expedition at Ebbewellepittia, where European visitors were treated to an unforgettable display of skill and entertainment. One of the most remarkable aspects of this image is the kind consideration shown by the tame elephants towards their young wild counterparts. As they worked together to noose and tame the young elephants, the older ones would gently coax them into obedience by stroking them with their trunks. After hours of being tied up and having their spirits somewhat broken, the young elephants were led down to the river between two tame ones for refreshment. Some more stubborn individuals required an escort of five tame elephants to guide them. The sight of these majestic creatures finally able to quench their thirst and cool off in the river is truly heartwarming. It's a reminder of both the power and gentleness that can be found within these magnificent animals. This print serves as a window into history, showcasing not only traditional methods of capturing wild elephants but also highlighting the unique bond between humans and these incredible creatures.

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