Getting started with the collection:
The Battle of the Four Elements
I.P. (signed by artist), 1663
This enigmatic sculpture portrays the fundamental conflict between the four cosmic elements – Earth, Water, Air and Fire – personified as four fighting nude figures. They symbolize the instability of humanity and the world. The maker, the unknown Master I.P., was inspired by a painting of this virtually unique subject. He carved the group out of the trunk of a box tree, the bark of which is still partly visible.
- Artwork typefigure
- Object numberBK-2021-215
- Dimensionsheight 24 cm
- Physical characteristicsgesneden buxushout