Printing Block (India), 19th century

Small block of carved wood shot through lengthwise with 5 large holes. Design of an elephant with howdah (carriage) is made by small squares dug out of the surface of the wood for reserve printing. A large round hole for elephant’s eye, another for a jewel in the howdah and a circular pattern of holes for the sun pierce through to the lengthwise tunnels in the wood. Remains of red dye or wax on sides of block and in the round holes.