Lamp with Relief of Animals
Artifact IDMO 63.511
Object Type
Light
Date
ca. 1960
Date PresentedNov-06-1961
Place MadeIndia, Asia
Medium
Ivory, wire, metal
DimensionsOverall H 9 3/4 in x W 20 1/2 in x D 8 in (24.8 cm x 52.1 cm x 20.3 cm )
Physical DescriptionLamp made from a single section of ivory tusk carved in high relief. A procession of deeply carved elephants, tigers, and lions runs in registers around the tusk. The top register depicts an elephant rearing as a lion attacks his neck, and another at his feet. The interior of the pillar contains the inner workings of the lamp, with the light illuminating from inside. An electric cord protrudes from base. The footed base is carved with floral motif.
Historical NoteThe lamp was presented to Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru of India during his state visit to the White House on November 6, 1961.
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteItem was a gift to President and Mrs. Kennedy from the Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. It was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Heads of State (National Archives Identifier 1677008)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
Related Links
Archive folder Nehru visit to White House"Museum Collection – Lamp"
