Elephants and their keepers, Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
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Elephants and their keepers, Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
Elephants and their keepers, Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Date: circa 1909
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14410381
© Mary Evans / Pharcide
Ceylon Elephant Elephants Keeper Keepers Lanka Natives Palm
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a moment in time from the early 1900s, depicting the deep connection between elephants and their keepers in the colonial region of Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka. The image, estimated to be from around 1909, presents a scene of tranquility and harmony as the mahouts, or elephant keepers, tenderly care for their large and gentle charges. The elephants, adorned with intricately woven palm frond fans, seem to trust and respect their human companions, while the men, dressed in traditional Indian attire, display a sense of pride and reverence for these magnificent animals. The British Empire's influence is evident in the background, with the European-style buildings and the presence of British officers observing the scene. However, this image focuses on the relationship between the native people and the elephants, which has been a long-standing tradition in Sri Lanka for centuries. The elephants were considered sacred animals in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, and their role in various religious and social ceremonies was essential. This photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, where man and nature coexisted in a mutually beneficial relationship. The elephants, with their powerful presence and intelligence, and the keepers, with their deep understanding and care, create a beautiful tableau that transcends time and continues to captivate our imaginations.
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