Giants of the Past: Sotheby’s Woolly Mammoth Exhibition in Hong Kong

August 21, 2024, 11:10 am
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In the heart of Hong Kong, a colossal figure from the past has emerged. Sotheby’s, in collaboration with LANDMARK, has unveiled a monumental woolly mammoth skeleton, standing 3.5 meters tall. This rare specimen, a complete skeleton of Mammuthus primigenius, is a window into a world long gone. It dates back 12,000 years, a time when these giants roamed the Earth during the last Ice Age.

The exhibition, titled "Giants of The Ice Age: Travel to Prehistoric Earth with The Woolly Mammoth," runs from August 15 to 29 at LANDMARK ATRIUM. This is not just an exhibition; it’s a journey back in time. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by the echoes of a prehistoric world, sparking curiosity and wonder.

Sotheby’s has a rich history of showcasing extraordinary artifacts. This mammoth skeleton is no exception. Unlike many museum displays that feature bones from multiple specimens, this skeleton is a rare find, preserved in its entirety. It was discovered in Siberia, a region that once teemed with these magnificent creatures. The mammoth lived alongside early humans, adapting to the harsh conditions of its environment. Its long, curved tusks were not just for show; they were tools for survival, used for digging through snow to find food.

The exhibition is part of Sotheby’s broader initiative, “Another World,” aimed at inspiring a new generation of art and culture enthusiasts. To complement the display, Sotheby’s is hosting a series of public workshops. One notable event is the “Discover, Learn & Play” workshop on August 24, designed for young explorers. Led by a biological anthropologist from the University of Cambridge, this workshop will delve into Earth’s natural evolution through hands-on activities. It’s an opportunity for families to engage with science in a fun and interactive way.

The woolly mammoth is not the only prehistoric marvel on display. Visitors can also see a stunning woolly mammoth skull from the Quaternary period, approximately 2.6 million years old, and a juvenile Gryposaurus skeleton from the Late Cretaceous period. The Gryposaurus, measuring just under nine feet, is a rare find, one of only a handful ever discovered. This skeleton, unearthed in Montana, tells a story of survival and adaptation in a world vastly different from our own.

Sotheby’s Maison, located at LANDMARK CHATER, is the first of ten distinguished Maisons set to open as part of LANDMARK’s “Tomorrow’s CENTRAL” transformation. This initiative aims to redefine luxury shopping and cultural experiences in Hong Kong. Sotheby’s is not just a marketplace for art; it’s a cultural hub, bridging the past with the present.

The woolly mammoth exhibition is a significant milestone for LANDMARK. It marks the beginning of a series of exceptional experiences designed to enrich the community. The collaboration between Sotheby’s and LANDMARK reflects a shared vision of bringing unique cultural experiences to the public. This partnership aims to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for history and art.

As part of the exhibition, the first 100 visitors each day who create a Sotheby’s account will receive custom-designed stickers inspired by the wonders of the prehistoric world. This initiative adds an interactive element to the experience, encouraging visitors to engage with the exhibition on a personal level.

The fascination with dinosaurs and prehistoric fossils has surged in recent years. Sotheby’s has been at the forefront of this trend, conducting historic sales of natural history artifacts. The auction of “Sue,” the most complete T. rex fossil, fetched an astounding $8.3 million. More recently, a stegosaurus named “Apex” made headlines by selling for $44.6 million, shattering previous records. These sales highlight the growing interest in natural history as a modern collectible.

The woolly mammoth exhibition is more than just a display of bones; it’s a celebration of life that once was. It invites visitors to ponder the mysteries of evolution and extinction. As we stand before this ancient giant, we are reminded of our own place in the tapestry of life.

Sotheby’s and LANDMARK have created a unique opportunity for the public to connect with history. The woolly mammoth skeleton serves as a bridge between the past and the present, a tangible link to a time when these magnificent creatures roamed the Earth. It’s a chance to reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

In a world that often feels disconnected from its roots, this exhibition offers a moment of pause. It encourages us to look back, to learn, and to appreciate the wonders of our planet. The woolly mammoth stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation, qualities that resonate deeply in today’s rapidly changing world.

As the exhibition unfolds, it promises to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. The woolly mammoth is not just a relic of the past; it’s a symbol of curiosity, exploration, and the enduring quest for knowledge. In the bustling city of Hong Kong, this ancient giant invites us to embark on a journey through time, igniting our imaginations and inspiring future generations.