The two correct statements that describe elliptical galaxies are:
1. They are the most common galaxy type.
2. They typically contain very little gas and dust.
Elliptical galaxies do not include the Milky Way, as the Milky Way is classified as a spiral galaxy. Additionally, while elliptical galaxies can be large, they are not solely defined as the largest types of galaxies in the universe, which can also include giant spiral galaxies.