Animal from Antiquity: Guardians of Earth's Legacy

Medium: Green Greywacke, 180 x 160 x 70mm

Animal from Antiquity stands as a profound tribute to the ancient beauty and vulnerability of our planet's marine life. Crafted from captivating green Greywacke, this sculpture offers a glimpse into the world of the elephant ear sponge (Ianthella basta) and its existence amidst the challenges of our changing planet.

Scientific Marvel: Ianthella basta, known as the elephant ear sponge, belongs to the animal kingdom's phylum Porifera. These filter-feeding organisms exhibit intricate skeletal structures, captivating observers with their scientific wonder.

Habitat and Range: These sponges thrive in the warm Indo-Pacific waters, particularly in coral reef ecosystems where they are vital for maintaining balance. Climate change poses a significant threat to their survival, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts.

Living Fossils: Much like the sculpture encapsulates their essence in stone, the elephant ear sponge represents a "living fossil," a resilient witness to Earth's history. This sculpture prompts reflection on the profound connection between time, life, and our responsibility to protect these ancient treasures.

In this gallery, "Animal from Antiquity" invites us to revere our planet's legacy, urging us to safeguard these living relics and ensure the continued resilience of life on Earth's delicate shores.