A pagoda on an elephant’s back is a significant motif in Asian art. It is a representation of “peace under heaven”, strength, and wisdom. Not a lot of provenance on it except, well, we all know about the uplifted elephant trunk. And, it was made in Chamdo Tibet. (Changdu), eastern Tibet. The Khamba culture, however, are not know for metalwork.
The collector of Tibetan art from whom I purchased it stated it was quite old. My opinion: mid-1900s.
A dragon sits on top of the tower and on each side of the elephant saddle.
In two pieces. Total: 11″ tall x 9″ at widest point. Elephant only: 6.75″ tall