Since the dawn of time, mankind has created
masterpieces from ivory. Usually taken from
elephant tusks, ivory objects have been found in
the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, in the palaces
of Ancient Crete, and in the ruins of Pompeii.
Medieval and renaissance Europe carved
exquisite sculptures from ivory, which came by
arduous trade routes from Africa. The Chinese
also created masterpieces from ivory and revered
it as a sacred substance. In Africa itself, ivory was
prized for jewelry, and sometimes served as
currency. As an organic substance, ivory can
acquire a warm, rich patina with age. Its soft,
mellow tones enhance the beauty of whoever
wears it. The appeal of this ivory bracelet is
timeless: such a jewel might once have adorned
the queen of Sheba, a tribal princess, or
Cleopatra.
- (FJ.3559)
|
