Chuck Ripper (American, B. 1929) "Gorilla Sitting in Grass" Signed lower right. Original Gouache/Watercolor painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This artwork was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the United Nations F.s 0,80 Gorilla stamp issued March 3, 1983. Gorillas are the largest living primates. Adult males may weigh 450 pounds and stand nearly six feet tall. Surprisingly, fossil records and biochemical data indicate that Gorillas are more genetically similar to humans than they are to orangutans. Along with chimpanzees, Gorillas are considered the most intelligent land animals on earth. They can be taught to communicate hundreds of words using sign language, combining some into rudimentary two-word phrases. Despite these "human-like" attributes, Gorillas have an unwarranted reputation for incredible ferocity. Although males can be quite dangerous if threatened, for the most part these noble beasts of the African jungles are peaceful, gentle creatures. Each year thousands of tourists visit the forests of Rwanda and mingle with totally unrestrained wild Gorillas. No one has ever been banned. One day soon, however, wild Gorillas may vanish, for every year more of their range is destroyed for the sake of timber and agricultural interests. In many parts of Africa, Gorillas are killed because they eat crops. People eat Gorilla meat in Gabon, serving it in restaurants. Hunters sell Gorilla skulls and skins to tourists. And every Gorilla that reaches a zoo represents two that have died on the way. Halting these assaults on Gorillas and their habitat is the only way to ensure the survival of these regal beasts. Image Size: 14.5 x 12.25 in. Overall Size: 17.5 x 14.75 in. Unframed. (B14180)