The word amphibian is derived from the Ancient Greek term (amphíbios),

which means 'both kinds of life', meaning 'of both kinds' and meaning 'life'.

The term was initially used as a general adjective for creatures that could

live on land or in water. This scene depicts a rare glimpse of a Coral Kid

Amphibian, coming up for a breath of air. Before descending back down

into the depths, an encounter with this elusive and unidentifiable

character gives rise to wonder about the nature of this cryptic scene.

Towering above the surface, head in the clouds, bolster the

monumentality of this moment. Far into the distance, a mountain ridge

dots the horizon.

The reddish earth tones of the figure's reflection are cast onto the

ultramarine blue surface, creating a beautiful contrast of color. His static

posture is combated by the gently churning tide as it engulfs the lower

portion of his body. At three-quarters view, the figure's somber

expression is unaware of being observed. The cornerstone of this

hybridized entity is a Greco-Roman, 1st-2nd century A.D. bronze

balsamarium in the form of an African boy. Bands of curly hair delicately

blend into a crowned headdress and angulating ribbed ponytail that is

derived from a bronze Benin sculpture. The red earthen terracotta-colored

torso with bulbous protuberances is derived from the Dijenne, (Mali)

civilization.