Jan 1, 2001

Help Sustain Global Artisans and Economies

by George W. Stone

Traditional crafts are cultural treasures, yet artisans in developing nations (particularly those whose crafts are exported) are rarely paid equitably for their work. Below are some nifty knickknacks sold online in accordance with policies set by the independent, nonprofit Fair Trade Federation.

Who's behind this ornate mahogany bird-motif mask? The wood carvers of the Indonesian island of Lombok, where this 39" visage represents local Sasak culture, its traditional crafts, and the influence of Balinese art ($28; www.novica.com).