heritage gifts

The complex heritage of Mexico can be seen in their Day of the Dead traditions, which are complicated blends of thought from the ancestors, the Aztec, Maya, and Spaniards, and Catholic belief. Preparing an altar by placing photographs, flowers, candles, favorite foods and drinks of the loved one is an invitation to the spirit of dead loved ones to return home to share memories, laughter and tears.

Since 1910, the Catrina name refers a well dressed woman. She is "The Bony One," "The Skinny One," and death personified. Inspired by the caricatures of lithographer Jose Guadalupe Posada, Catrina is an important personage in Mexico's November 2 Day of the Dead celebrations. She takes center stage in this colorful gift box. Catrina and her husband, El Catrin appear on a set of four decoupage coasters along with a white sugar skull. The skull theme is repeated in a hand-painted candle. A small portrait of Catrina is encased in a petite tin frame, protected by a glass pane, for wall display.

Decoupage motifs depict the legendary art of Puebla to cover this reverent pinewood cross. The home of Talavera pottery, Puebla's ceramic art is legendary. Ana María González selects a colorful pattern depicting tiles.

Romantic sentiments abound in this hand-carved panel by Wayan Rendah. A trio of elephants suggests Bali's rich Hindu heritage, recalling classic scenes of kings and their caravans. The proud creatures appear closely linked, their expressive features sculpted from jempinis, or chinaberry wood.

The distant lands of Armenia explore the spiritual world through sublime pieces of art that tell the region's history of luxury and splendor. Also proud of his heritage, artisan Arevik Dirartonian shares a glimpse of Armenia's culture through this daghdhan amulet made from ceramic and jute accents. Hand-painted in yellow, red and turquoise hues, this pomegranate-shaped wall accent displays a gorgeous floral pattern and dangling pendants that call for harmony to enter your life.

Embrace the rich heritage and captivating artistry of Armenia with the Daghdghan amulet of fertility and abundance, expertly crafted by the talented hands of Shahe Harutyunyan. This ceramic ornament showcases an intricate geometric pattern adorned with delicate floral details, creating an exquisite design that is not only visually stunning but also believed to ward off negative energies. With its elegant palette of brown hues and charming jute cord, this piece exudes a natural aura that will beautifully complement any space while adding a touch of cultural significance and protective energy.

Nu'Kem Association of Textile Artisans share their ancestral heritage through their weaving arts. Working on white, they select a modern palette of light brown, grey and mustard to create a motif that repeats the colors in diagonal waves. This charming wall hanging is a working example of their traditional backstrap loom. The pinewood loom rods and shed rods are still in place.

Embrace the rich heritage and captivating artistry of Armenia with the Daghdghan amulet of fertility and abundance, expertly crafted by the talented hands of Shahe Harutyunyan. This ceramic ornament showcases an intricate geometric pattern adorned with delicate floral details, creating a truly exquisite design that is not only visually stunning but also believed to ward off negative energies. With its elegant palette of blue and natural clay hues and charming jute cord, this piece exudes a natural aura that will beautifully complement any space while adding a touch of cultural significance and protective energy.