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According to the artist, “It was on my very first visit to Kenya in 1949 and my abortive attempt to become a game warden that I saw my first elephants in the wild. The initial impression, and one that has gained strength over the years as I have seen more and more of these magnificent animals in their natural environment, is of one’s own complete insignificance.

“... Tragically, though, it is now becoming increasingly difficult to see a really fine bull carrying big ivory. They have all but gone. Isn’t it amazing that man, who can paint a Mona Lisa or write a great symphony, can at the same time completely exterminate so many of the wild creatures around him? One can always recreate a man-made object, however valuable, but once the great elephants have gone, they can never be re-created. The days are over when one could see elephants carrying ivory so huge that they would have to lift their heads when walking. It is our loss.”

Condition ReportSurface condition is excellent. No signs of restoration.

Important Notice: Statements of condition are provided as a service to potential bidders; such statements are educated opinions and should not be regarded as facts. The Coeur d’Alene Art Auction has no responsibility for any errors or omissions.