Truffle gnome

Truffles are the edible spores that grow on a fungus that lives underground. Technically, they are not mushrooms as mushrooms live above ground while truffles live beneath the surface. Ranging from the size of a pea to a large orange, they are mainly found near the roots of oak and hazelnut trees. Traditionally, female pigs are used in harvesting truffles, as they release a pheromone like that of a male pig. The ancient Babylonians documented truffles around 5000 years ago, and the Greeks believed they were formed from water, heat and lightning. A forever revered delicacy, truffles are a highly prized treasure from nature's bounty.

[gold frame not included]

30 x 40 cm oil on canvas