Edward Burtynsky (b. 1955) is one of Canada's most successful photographers.
Internationally renowned for his large-scale photographs documenting the ramifications of industry on the environment, Burtynsky's work often presents a tension between wonder and desecration, reminding us of our simultaneous dependence and lack of concern for the planet.
Burtynsky began an extended project in 2008 that focuses on the use of water as a resource, and the conflicts and complications embedded in humanity's relationship to it. This photograph belongs to that series, conveying the underlying themes that the artist investigates in his understanding of water.
Agriculture represents the largest human activity upon the planet -- with seventy percent of fresh water dedicated to the practice. Aquaculture is the main focus here, where water is shaped to grow and harvest water-based crops. Unlike many of Burtynsky's other photographs which show devastation or destruction to the earth, this work is an appreciation of an enduring and environmentally thoughtful system.
This image shows the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces. Spanning 1,000,000 acres and four countries, the terraces have been maintained by the Hani people for over 1200 years, and are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rice cultivation is a pivotal element of the Hani culture, theology, calendar, and political system. The system's distinct vertical structure has contributed to its resilience, along with an intricate system of canals, irrigation channels, artificial aquifers, and ditches to divert water.
The photograph is particularly striking in that it falls almost completely into abstraction. From an aerial perspective, the vertically-oriented rice terraces seem to flatten and merge, creating a fluid waved field of pattern, punctuated by reflective pools, trees, houses, and minuscule figures. Beautifully captivating, "Rice Terraces #2" is an excellent and noteworthy photograph that would be an impressive addition to a new or existing collection.
This photograph is readily attributed to Burtynsky, and has been used in numerous articles about the artist. Notably, it is being used as the representational image of the 2026 ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature, honouring Edward Burtynsky and John Bianchini for their transformative contributions to environmental stewardship and innovation.
Burtynsky's work is represented in over 50 museum collections around the world ranging from The National Gallery of Canada, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, to Victoria and Albert Museum, London, and Bibliothèque National, Paris.
Questions about this piece? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto gallery.
"Rice Terraces, Western Yunnan Province, China, 2012"
60 Megapixel Digital Capture; Digital Chromogenic Colour Print on Kodak Endura Premier Paper; Printed 2013
Signed and stamped on archival label affixed to mount, verso
Edition: 3/9
39"H 52"W (work)
41"H 54"W (framed)
Very good condition
- Where does the inventory ship from?
Our inventory is divided between New York and Toronto.
- Where do you ship to?
We can ship anywhere. Typically when we ship within North America we prefer to use FedEx or DHL. To Europe, Asia and beyond we generally use DHL.
- How much does it cost to ship?
For shipments within North America, we typically charge a flat rate fee. Many items on our site will list the rate. For shipping outside of North America, we can easily provide a quote and will look for the most efficient and economical option.
Most of the items on our site can be easily shipped internationally.
Occasionally we will recommend that an artwork be removed from its frame for shipping. Larger framed works are typically framed with plexiglass. We export over 80% of what we sell, so we are comfortable shipping anywhere.
- Are there additional taxes or fees?
When a work is valued above $2,500 usd there is a possibility of tax of 0.35%, but this is applied sporadically. There can similarly be an additional fee for customs brokerage and this can range from $20 - $65. US Taxes, duties and customs brokerage are not included in our flat rate shipping. However most of our shipments to the US enter without any additional fees.
- Do you provide a certificate of authenticity?
Yes, we guarantee everything we sell. We can provide both a digital and printed version of our certificate of authenticity.
What is your return policy?
- Caviar20 wants you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. We have a 7 day no-questions full refund return policy for your purchase. Shipping charges are non-refundable. Return shipping is the responsibility of the customer. After 8 days returns are given a credit note. There is no expiration for our credit notes.
- What payment methods do you accept?
Canadian clients are welcomed and encouraged to pay with interac.