39'000 B.C. landscape reconstruction

A landscape reconstruction of the Lucerne area 39'000 B.C. The scene is set on the spot where a worker at the local gravel quarry discovered a well preserved mammoth tusk in 2006. Today's surface level is roughly 30 m higher than in the picture- hence the drone perspective in the foreground. The picture quotes the famous painting "Luzern zur Eiszeit" painted by Ernst Hodel in 1929, a replica is currently on display at the Gletschergarten Museum (Glacier garden) in Lucerne, Switzerland. The warm period version of the picture emphasizes changes in flora and climate. Scientific advisor cold period: Prof. Dr. phil Ebbe Nielsen. Archeology Departement of Lucerne Scientific advisor warm period: Prof. Dr. Benjamin Stocker, ETH Illustration: Samuel J. Bucheli 2015/2020

Cold period: Mt. Rigi on the extreme left, Mt. Pilatus on the extreme right. A wild river transports gravel. The alpine glaciers are on the advance again, they 've already reached the city of Lucerne. Mt.Pilatus also sports some small glaciers.

Warm period: The galciers have retreated deep into to inner Alps, the flat lands are covered with lush forests of large trees and undergrowth. Why the absence of animals (and humans) in the picture? This version was commissioned by Prof. Benjamin Stocker, ETH. His focus lies on vegetation and climate science.

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"Luzern zur Eiszeit" (Lucerne in the ice age) by Ernst Hodel, 1929. Photo:  Samuel J. Bucheli - at the Gletschergarten Luzern, Jahrmillionen-Show room - The famous painting won't be on display for an unspecified periode of time as the whole exhibition will see a complete overhaul in connection with the opening of the new Erlebnis Fels - (the rock experience)
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