Vanishing Species Collection
Each sculpture in the Vanishing Species Collection represents a species that is disappearing in the wild. Each sculpture is not complete, just as the story of survival for each species is not complete. The sculptures include a black rhinoceros, mountain gorilla, cheetah, reticulated giraffe and African elephant. I hope these sculptures will in some way touch those who see them and inspire you to find a way to support the conservation of these animals in the wild. I will donate a portion of the money earned from the sale of these sculptures to conservation organizations working to save these species.
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Limited edition of 10 each - can be purchased separately or as a collection
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Deception
Black Rhino
The black rhino is found in eastern and southern Africa. It is listed as critically endangered. The main threat to this species is poaching for its horn. The two main uses of rhino horn are in Chinese medicine and for ornamental use as a status symbol. The black rhino is a symbol of deception. It looks fierce and powerful, yet it is largely passive and non-violent. The perception that its horn has medicinal properties is also a deception as there is no scientific evidence for this. The value of rhino horn is often compared to the price of gold, which is depicted by the gold color of the horns in
this sculpture.
13.5 in L, 3.5 in W, 6 in H
base - 5 x 12 in
Black Tears
Cheetah
The Asiatic cheetah is critically endangered while the African cheetah is listed as vulnerable. One of the reasons for decreasing numbers is habitat loss. Poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking also contribute to decreasing numbers. Cheetahs that live outside of protected areas are often in conflict with livestock and game farmers which can lead to them being killed in retaliation. The Egyptians observed that although cheetahs tend to have many babies, most do not survive to see adulthood. The Egyptians reasoned that because of this, the cheetah cried black tears of sorrow and that is why the cheetah has black markings beneath its eyes.
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13 in L, 2 in W, 9 in H
base - 4 x 12 in
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Noble Spirit
Mountain Gorilla
The mountain gorilla is listed as endangered and is found in Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Human intrusions and disturbance in the mountain gorilla habitat have led to their declining numbers. There has been habitat degradation and destruction. The mountain gorillas have been injured or killed as a non-target species of poaching and purposeful killing has also occurred. While the mountain gorilla is incredibly strong, it is also gentle in nature. It is very protective of itself and its family. It represents a Noble Spirit.
8.5 in L, 4 in W, 9 in H
base - 5.5 x 8 in
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Twiga
Reticulated Giraffe
The reticulated giraffe is listed as endangered. They are found in Kenya and likely exist in Ethiopia and Somalia. It is thought that the main reasons for its declining numbers are habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and poaching. The giraffe’s long neck and long legs allow them to fulfill a unique niche in nature. While visually disproportional, the giraffe moves with elegance and grace. Twiga (Twee-gah) is kiswahili for giraffe.
14 in L, 3 in W, 13 in H
base - 5.5 x 8 in
White Gold
African Elephant
The African elephant is listed as vulnerable. It is found in 37 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The major reason for the decline in numbers has been due to poaching for ivory and meat. The loss and fragmentation of habitat is also a threat to the species. In African cultures the elephant reflects wisdom and is considered the Chieftain of the Forest. The long ivory tusks are symbolic of long life and sexual vitality. The latter has resulted in man destroying members of the species for their tusks. The ivory is sold as jewelry or carved statues (white gold). The ivory is also thought to have medicinal properties in Chinese folklore.
14 in L, 4.5 in W, 11 in H
base - 7 x 15 in
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All sculpture photos by:
Edward Perry
Wonders of Life Studio
