The Monarch’s Gaze, created by Afghan-German artist Zabih Habib, stands as a masterpiece of lapidary art that captures the quiet power and elegance of a falcon. This stunning sculpture, crafted from 10,450 carats of ruby with accents of gold and sapphire, required over 2 years of dedicated work to complete. The falcon’s poised stance symbolizes control, vision, and timeless authority.

Standing at 55 cm in height and weighing 11 kg, The Monarch’s Gaze commands attention with its impressive presence. The falcon’s body, sculpted entirely from ruby, exudes a deep crimson hue that conveys strength and elegance. Meanwhile, its beak and talons, made from gold, add a regal touch, and the eyes, sparkling with sapphire, offer brilliance and clarity to the piece.

Moreover, the falcon stands on an intricately designed base, crafted from polished crystal with gold accents. This base provides a grounded contrast to the bird’s elevated stance, symbolizing the balance between earth and sky—between rooted wisdom and soaring ambition.

This sculpture belongs to Habib’s renowned “Legacy of Power” series, where he explores themes of dominance, nature’s majesty, and the eternal connection between wildlife and human aspiration. Each element in The Monarch’s Gaze reflects both the falcon’s natural grace and its symbolic significance.

Through this piece, Habib invites viewers to reflect on the enduring qualities of strength, vision, and resilience. The falcon embodies stillness yet suggests readiness for action—an eternal guardian watching over its domain. This piece not only serves as a testament to Habib’s skill as a sculptor but also celebrates nature’s beauty through the lens of gemstone art.

View Zabih Habib’s other works: Artworks.

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