Death Jumbo 

Sue Coe’s oil painting depicts the tragic death of Jumbo, a circus elephant, amidst the industrial backdrop. The dominant symbol here is the elephant itself, which, across cultures, has varied meanings, from a symbol of wisdom and royalty to one of exotic spectacle. Observe how Coe juxtaposes the romantic idea of the circus, advertised on the left, with the harsh reality of industrialization in the background. The elephant, caught between the train and progress, becomes a potent symbol of exploitation. The death of Jumbo echoes the plight of many creatures, and people, sacrificed in the name of entertainment and progress. Think of the Roman arena, where exotic animals met violent ends for public amusement. The repetition of such scenes in history suggests a deep-seated human ambivalence toward animals. The painting evokes a sense of collective guilt and subconscious discomfort. This dark memory resurfaces, urging us to confront the ethical implications of our desires.