authentic handmade

"This sculpture of a woman and condor is inspired by the close relationship between the people of the Andes and nature," begins John Barrow as he confides his inspiration. "They respect animals, especially the condor. In pre-Hispanic times, the condor was not only the bringer of news, good or bad, but it was also believed to be responsible for the sun coming up every morning. They believed condors were strong enough to lift the sun over the mountains." From Barrow's 'Folklore' series, the sculpture is crafted with hand-carved segments of cedar, mahogany and ishpingo woods. He stains the woods with colorful natural dyes.

Carved by hand, this authentic African mask features ornate motifs created with tiny beads. An adinkra symbol on the forehead conveys conventional wisdom; this one is named Osrane ne Nsoromma, meaning "star and moon" in the Twi language of Ghana's Akan people. It is a symbol of love and faithfulness, and represents the harmony that exists in the bond between a man and a woman. Godfred France designs and crafts the original mask.

Artisan Made Pastika crafts a beautiful statuette representing the diligence of a Balinese woman carrying her waterbowl as she returns from the watering hole. The hand carved albesia wood is embellished with antiqued finishes for an authentic touch on the traditional garments worn by Balinese women.

Traditional Oaxacan alebrije artistry reaches new heights in this spectacular hand-painted sculpture of a coiled snake, where copal wood transforms into a kaleidoscope of cultural expression. Mexican artisans Eugenia and Roberto Sosa's dedication to authentic techniques shines through every meticulously applied brushstroke while their environmentally responsible harvesting methods protect copal trees by utilizing only naturally fallen branches. The result is a breathtaking figurine adorned with ancestral patterns that pulse with life and meaning.