Sculpture "Mantis"

Citrine Sculpture

Carved from a large, clean natural Citrine crystal, the "Mantis" sculpture measures 32 cm in height and weighs a total of 12,500 carats. The renowned Munsteiner fantasy cut was applied to facet the back side of the stone, creating a stunning play of light and reflections.

The creation of the "Mantis" sculpture involved meticulous craftsmanship. The rough Citrine crystal was first cut into a raw outer form, and then the design for the backsided incisions was planned to complement the size and natural properties of the mineral. Every step of cutting and polishing the sculpture was done by hand, using classical gemstone cutting tools.

An intriguing aspect of the "Mantis" sculpture is the way it interacts with light. The facets reflect light in different ways depending on the viewer's angle, creating a mesmerizing optical impression that is ever-changing.

The "Mantis" sculpture was created at the Atelier Munsteiner in Germany between 2013 and 2014. The design process involved years of experience and research in gemstone cutting, ensuring that the correct angles of incisions were followed to achieve optimal reflection. The unique properties of the Citrine crystal were also taken into account, as different gemstones have varying crystal structures and hardness.

Despite the challenges of working with such a large object, the artist successfully positioned the sculpture for facetting and polishing, resulting in a masterpiece that showcases the artist's skill and creativity.

The "Mantis" sculpture, with its intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship, is a testament to the beauty and artistry that can be achieved through the fusion of nature and human creativity.

Image Credits: Studio Lichtblick/Cullmann, 2014.

Awards and Accolades: The "Mantis" sculpture was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2015. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The "Mantis" sculpture stands out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world through its fulfillment and positive impact.