The Tortoiseshell Trade is a sculpture created by artist Natalia Kapchuk, offering profound commentary on the endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle. Crafted from recycled fiberglass and enhanced with green and gold chrome electroplating, the artwork captures the turtle's beauty while drawing attention to the devastating impact of the turtle shell trade.
For centuries, the exploitation of Hawksbill Sea Turtles for their shells has significantly contributed to their decline. Historically, these turtles were ruthlessly hunted for their shells, which were fashioned into decorative items such as combs, caskets, and jewelry. In the 20th century, Japan emerged as the world's largest market for turtle shells, with its Becco artisans importing over 1.3 million mature turtles and 575,000 baby turtles between 1950 and 1992.
Although the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) enacted a ban on turtle shell trade in 1977, illegal black-market trading continues to threaten the recovery of Hawksbill populations. The Marine Turtle Specialist Group (MTSG) reports an alarming 80% decline in global Hawksbill populations over the past three generations.
Kapchuk’s mixed media sculpture, The Tortoiseshell Trade, poignantly reflects the tragedy of this critically endangered species while symbolizing the complex relationship between humans and nature. The green chrome finish signifies life, nature, and ecology, contrasting with gold chrome accents that highlight the historical value and symbol of wealth associated with the turtle’s shell—an association that has led to the death of millions of these majestic creatures.
Size: 100 x 100 x 25,2 cm
Weight: 9.6 kg
Year of creation: 2023
Technique: Mixed Media
Medium: Recycled Fiberglass, Electroplating Chrome
Color: Green, Gold
Backside: Electroplating Chrome Fiberglass
Signature: Hand Signed by Artist (Central side, along the belly)
Fine Art Form: Sculpture / 3D Wall Art
Edition: 2/2
