The mammoth tusk composition "Heaven and Earth in a Single Spring" is a grandiose piece of artistic carving inspired by one of the most famous scenes of Chinese mythological literature — the Feast of the Peaches of Immortality from the classic novel Journey to the West. The sculpture is made from a mammoth tusk that has lain in the ice for about ten thousand years, and embodies the ancient philosophical idea of harmony between the heavenly and earthly worlds.
From the seething waves, artfully carved into the dark base, rises the mountain of longevity, the image of a mythical heavenly abode. Its slopes are covered with flowering peach trees, pines and cypresses, which in Chinese symbolism mean long life, stability and eternity. Flowers and branches form a complex ornament in which the natural world connects with the divine world.
At the top of the mountain stands an elegant pavilion, illuminated by a soft glow. The scene of the great heavenly feast unfolds here. The Lady of the West and the Jade Emperor head to the pavilion, inviting the Buddha and the immortals to share the feast of longevity peaches. In Chinese mythology, these peaches grant eternal life and spiritual perfection, so the holiday symbolizes the highest harmony and the blessing of heaven.
Numerous figures of gods, goddesses and immortals move along the slopes of the mountain. Some walk on clouds, others climb stone paths, carrying flowers, sacred vessels and gifts. Young heavenly messengers, sages and celestial beings gather together like participants in a solemn procession. The whole scene is filled with a sense of the joy and grandeur of the heavenly assembly.
The composition is layered and harmonious. The shapes, architecture and natural elements smoothly follow the shape of the tusk, creating a sense of the natural development of the space. The high and low reliefs alternate, enhancing the depth of the scene and the dynamics of movement. Despite the complexity and richness of the details, the composition remains clear and balanced.
The artwork was hand-carved over a period of eight years and three months. This work has become an outstanding example of the modern art of mammoth bone carving, combining traditional symbolism, craftsmanship and a deep philosophical idea.
"Heaven and Earth in a single spring" symbolizes the harmony of the universe, where heavenly forces and earthly life combine in a state of prosperity. It is an image of an ideal world in which longevity, wisdom and the beauty of nature form a single whole.
Tusk length: about 425 cm.
The thickness of the tusk carving is approximately 90 cm.
