Delhi Durbar 1903 (2 Viewers)

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

Ana and Andanna have mentioned that I own a special Beau Geste Elephant set. Since it has been mentioned, I thought I would like to share it with you. Let me begin to describe it to you. I will attempt to illustrate my description by posting a variety of photos. You may find my description and my illustrations a bit lengthy. If so, feel free to scroll ahead or change to a different thread.

Ana Donzino, owner of Beau Geste, paints the very first elephant of each Durbar Elephant set that is produced. Ana's Elephant becomes the model that Lucila, the elephant painter, uses to paint all the remaining elephants in the set series. Consequently, to own one of "Ana's Elephants" is something very special. And,...my set of the Elephant Band from Orchha is one of Ana's Elephants. It is identified by some special painting that does not appear on any other #250 elephant.

Ana was gracious and autographed the box in which it was placed and she wrote "Number One" on the box. Needless to say, I am immensely proud to own it. I will present many pictures, perhaps too many, to you so you might enjoy the wonderful details the very talented Ana Donzino has placed on this marvelous pachyderm.

Here, then, is Ana's Elephant Band from Orchha. I hope you enjoy viewing it. More pictures will follow.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

The Elephant has a wonderful face that is covered with whitewash. What follows are four photos of the Elephant's face taken at different angles.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

The draping that covers the back and sides of the elephant includes some magnificent painting along the edge. The next three pictures allow you the opportunity to examine this element of the set. It is one of those features that simply takes away my breath. I hope you enjoy seeing it.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

A marvelous four person band rides atop this grand pachyderm. Two of these musicians play large kettle drums strapped to the side of the Elephant.

In order to view the faces of these musicians and to see the wonderful poses and instruments displayed, I have taken a large number of photos. I am posting seven of these photos so you may gather a comprehensive view of these fine figures.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

The remaining two pictures of the band.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends,

I thought you might like a closer view of one of the kettle drums.

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[wadepat]

Gentle Friends.

At long last, I have come to the end of photos of my of the Elephant Band from Orchha. I hope I have not overwhelmed you with too many pictures, but, as you can see, I am most proud of this set. I close with a view of the wonderful escort figure that is included in the set.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all!

Warmest personal regards

Pat

 

[1879fanatic]

Pat,
Please, please stop apologizing for TOO MANY photos. You provide just enough photos and info that I just stop everything else in the world and just..
STARE at your beauties.
A very Merry Christmas to you as well!
Graciously,
Mike

 

[Andanna]

Pat, I am slightly envious. Great elephant and great photos. I think this is a band I do not want to miss.

Do you have any idea what they were playing? Most have been very rhythmic.

 

[DMNamiot]

Hi Andanna,

I agree that some Palms would be fine in a few spots along the route. One of the main trees that would have also lived there was a Banyan Tree which is an Indian Fig. Now to find trees that would work I would look at a model RR hobby supplier in your area. Marlborough made some trees but I am unsure if they are available through Dutkins or if you must order directly from Marlborough.

There are also a few very talented sculpters here on this site who may be able to make some for you. Try contacting Alexdakar or Shiloh either of them maybe able to assist you inthe quest for trees.

Hope this helps

All the best

Dave

 

[thebritfarmer]

What a wonderful piece Pat, I am sure I have seen this somewhere before

 

[Andanna]

I actually also like the elephant guard a lot. He just adds that special touch. Maybe next time we are getting a child closing its ears ...

 

[DMNamiot]

Hi Guys,

I dont have a ton of BG Durbar sets but I have a couple so I thought I would share them with you. They are BG set 69, 70 and 71

Enjoy

All the best

Dave

 

[thebritfarmer]

Another nice set Dave and something a bit different from the usual elephants. Thanks for the pics.

 

[wadepat]

Hi Dave,

What a great set! I never tire of viewing Alwar's Throne. The set is absolutely magnificent!

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[Andanna]

Dave,

wonderful set. I really enjoy that one. I was amazed when I say that set and the corresponding original photo.

 

[Andanna]

Some photos of my five week old collection of Dehi Durbar figures from Beau Geste as displayed on a ledge under artificial, warm light. First, my two elephants:

 

[wadepat]

Some photos of my five week old collection of Dehi Durbar figures from Beau Geste as displayed on a ledge under artificial, warm light. First, my two elephants:

Hi Andanna,

I see you have acquired the Kasmir Elephant and the Travancore Elephant. They are truly remarkable sets, arn't they? Your photos are outstanding and I especially like the backdrop installed behind your elephants. Your collection is taking a grand shape and I am enjoying your pictures immensely!

I look forward to see more of your emerging collection!

Warmest personal regards,

Pat

 

[Andanna]

Elephant guards and infantry serve to complement my elephants:

Here, I need a recommendation: the scabbard of the officer requires a little touch-up. What paint shall I use - or is it necessary to return to TF or BG for repair?

No bands yet as I am concerned the elephants do not like the noise. No spectators yet either out of concern they might feed the elephants rupies.

Palms are on their way.

 

[wadepat]

Hi Andanna,

Regarding the desired touch up on the officer's scabbard, I believe you have two reasonable options. They are:

1) Return the figure to Treefrog and have Beau Geste apply the necessary paint. However, this process will take some time and you will incur some postage cost.

2) If you have the confidence to accomplish the repair yourself, you may e-mail Ana and ask her what color and what brand of paint should be used for the touch up. I believe Ana could supply you with all the necessary information with which to make the repair. If you pursue this option, you save both time and money.

Whatever you decide to do, you will have a fine set of figures!

Warmest personal regards,

Pat