The following is an honest account of my conversation with Swiss customs agent today regarding a piece of art I am importing - that happens to be painted by an elephant.
Agent: Herr Lumi, this is Swiss customs. I have some questions regarding this art to be delivered to you.
Lumi: Ask away
Agent: is it a picture or a painting?
Lumi: painting
Agent: How many colours?
Lumi: 4
Agent: What size?
Lumi: 30 X 60 cm
Agent: Who painted it?
Lumi: An elephant
Agent: no, no. Who painted the elephant?
Lumi: No, it is a painting by an elephant.
Agent: (Laughing) For real?
Lumi: Yes, I am quite serious.
Agent: Well, my form says I need to give the artist a name
Lumi: The name of the elephant is Punpetch.
Agent: Okay, what is the value of the painting?
Lumi: That depends - if elephants become extinct, it could be quite valuable.
Agent: I see. I have to speak to my boss, as I do not know how to value the painting. I will call you if I have more questions.
Lumi: I understand. Please do so quickly as I need art in my flat.
Would the import cost differ on sex of the elephant and Indian or African variety. I ask as I am considering reviving the craze in elephants feet tables and feel this could be crucial to my business plan
Given there are fewer Asian elephants, the import cost is a little higher. As for the sex of the elephant, given that elephants are a matriarchal society, the male paintings tend to be more valuable as they live alone and depressed, which translates in to much better art.
Ask and you shall receive . The Asian Elephant Art and Conservation Project is a worthwhile cause. If anybody has an art gallery that is interested in hosting a show, I will be happy to helo co-ordinate.
Even if it was painted by an elephant, Swiss customs still treat it as artwork for import. You’ll need to declare its value and possibly pay VAT. Make sure you have some documentation, like proof of origin or purchase. It might raise eyebrows, but as long as the paperwork’s in order, it should be fine!
