elephants scenes carved ivory tusk 3d printable model cnc 3D print model

African style elephants scenes carved ivory tusk 3d printable model cnc

Our collection of 3D printable models captures the essence of African art with intricate scenes featuring elephants, inspired by traditional ivory carvings. These models are perfect for 3D printing and CNC machining, allowing you to create stunning and unique pieces of art.Ivory carving refers to the art of shaping ivory, which is derived from the teeth or tusks of animals, typically utilizing sharp cutting instruments, either through mechanical means or manual techniques. Items crafted from ivory are commonly referred to as ivories.

The practice of ornamental ivory carving dates back to prehistoric eras. However, prior to the 19th century, when the interior regions of Africa became more accessible, ivory was predominantly a rare and costly material, primarily employed in the creation of small luxury items. The intricate details achievable in ivory carving are notable, and since ivory lacks the bullion value associated with precious metals and is not easily recyclable, the preservation rate of ivory artifacts tends to be significantly higher than that of items made from other materials. This aspect has rendered ivory carving particularly significant in the context of medieval European art, especially within Byzantine art, where few monumental sculptures have been produced or have survived.

As elephant populations and other species that produce ivory have faced endangerment, primarily due to poaching for ivory, international agreements such as CITES, along with national laws in many countries, have curtailed the contemporary production of carved ivory.

Regarding the material itself, ivory is not exclusively sourced from elephants; any animal tooth or tusk utilized for carving can be classified as ivory, although the specific species is often specified. Numerous species with tusks or large teeth have been employed in this craft.

Teeth consist of three components: the outer dental enamel, the primary body of dentine, and the inner root of osteo-dentine. For carving purposes, the latter two components are generally usable in most animals, while the harder enamel may pose challenges due to its density, necessitating its removal through grinding. This is particularly true for hippopotamus teeth, where the enamel on the largest teeth is comparable in hardness to jade. Elephant ivory, known for its larger pieces, is relatively soft and uniform, making it an ideal medium for carving. The specific species of the ivory source can often be identified through examination under ultraviolet light, as different types exhibit distinct colors.