Royal elephant with leopard skin rider sculpture

This vibrant ceramic sculpture from Zimele Ceramics, titled The Royal Elephant with Leopard Skin, is a playful yet powerful portrayal of African wildlife and community. Sculpted by Sneh and painted by Sello, the one-of-a-kind piece features a majestic elephant painted in a striking leopard print, with a zebra-patterned mount—a creative fusion that symbolizes strength, agility, and protection. Two expressive monkeys ride atop the elephant, one carrying a fruit basket, adding a touch of humor and a deeper narrative of nourishment and trust. Measuring 8 inches tall and 8 inches wide, this piece is part of Zimele’s African Circus collection, inspired by founder Victor Shabalala’s reflections on the connection between humans and animals. The work explores two core themes—food and safety—through symbolic storytelling. The elephant, revered in Zulu culture as a figure of wisdom and power, becomes both protector and provider, while the monkeys reflect playfulness, resourcefulness, and rel