Brass art and craftsmanship of the finest degree reflect all the traditions of the respective tribe and its affiliations with symbolic animal forms in respect to tribal culture. The posture of the rider can thus be symbolic either of power, hunting traditions, or ceremonial processions. The patterns on the surface of the elephant's body are presumably divided into a number of distinct categories: the anterior side is dominated by rhomboidal motifs, thought to be an age-old design motif in most tribal metalwork-a motif that comports aptly for armor and protection.
The posterior part and legs delineated with linear patterns imbibe rhythm and enhance the expression of motion and form of the elephant. They thus beautify and are intended to convey meaning in respect of tribal cosmology and legends. Such brass figurines are often associated with rituals and festivals and even simply go to beautify tribal homes. The Gunsur Malias exalt the elephant as a strong, wise, and sacred being. The craftsmanship indicates the importance of such figures in tribal cosmology and aesthetics, denoting artistic and technical achievement as well as cultural significance passed from generation to generation.