Chuck Ripper (American, B. 1929) "Pandas Eating Bambo Shoots by Waterfall" Signed lower right. Original Gouache/Watercolor on Masonite.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

Original painting for the Fleetwood Collection Limited Edition Porcelain Plate.

Unlike true bears, these gentle giants are not capable of building up fat reserves to last them during hibernation. Thus, Giant Pandas are active all year long, feeding much of the time. The only known species of carnivore to have become a vegetarian, these animals use their powerful jaws and strong teeth to pulverize the bamboo that forms their diet. Fortunately this creature's thick throat lining protects it from injury when swallowing sharp plant splinters. Possessing long wrist bones that act almost like sixth digits, Pandas are well equipped to clutch bamboo stalks and leaves in their paws. When eating, these creatures assume a sitting position with hind legs outstretched. Pandas also dine on their backs, their furry black legs up in the air, relishing each meal in total comfort. Unfortunately, shortages of the Panda's treasured bamboo can occur. Though these plants flower infrequently, when they do bloom, the stalks soon die and several years pass before the new seedlings are large enough to be eaten. Because the Panda's diet includes little else, some animals are faced with the threat of starvation.

Image Diameter: 14.75 in.
Overall Size: 17.75 x 17.75 in.
Unframed.
(B14508)

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