Tribal craftsmanship and symbolism is the elephant figure of the Khond tribe. The Khonds are the largest tribe residing in the state of Odisha. They are animists and practice metalwork traditions wherein they offer respects to animals and the biosphere. The model is purely made of white metal and is supposed to be an alloy that is popularly used among the tribal artisans for its long life and smooth finish. The standing elephant effigy is thus poised and rigid-edged and stylized in its realism.. Triangular ears, an almost exaggerated defining feature, lend this figure its particularly distinct visual appeal. Notwithstanding all this, the elephant's proportions are harmonised, extrapolating a very clear image of the observation its artisan did of the form of the animal.
The overall appearance of the figurine becomes luminous, sacred as it is created from a bright white metal, which complements and reinforces the symbolic role of the elephant in Kondh belief. In many tribal communities, including the Kondhs, it is a symbol of strength, wisdom, and protection. Such images become part of ritual paraphernalia, or may just be used in ceremonial contexts, likely during festivals or fertility rites. The artistic interpretations of the Kondh people find themselves entirely within their worldview; animal-shaped figures are mediators to the spiritual world, guards of the community, or embodiments of the ideas of sacrosanct totems. This elephant effigy would be more than merely an ornament or a sacred object. This is the very thing that looks into how the Kondh would penetrate interior into their world views, mixing experiences in functionality, spirituality, and aesthetics into one well-crafted piece.