animal carving

Expertly carving rain tree wood, skilled Thai artisans capture an elephant's majestic power and keen intelligence in a gift sculpture presented by Amporn. They give the piece a polished finish and add ivorywood tusks.

Jaifah Aksornsri invokes the presence of Huang, the mythological bird of east Asia that reigns over all other birds. Originally there was a male version too, Feng which later was fused with Huang and therefore became known as Fenghuang, a female entity to be paired with the Chinese dragon. Together they augur a blissful marriage as they represent husband and wife. Fenghuang is known in the West as the Chinese phoenix and she symbolizes the concept of yin and yang, as well as high virtue and grace. Fenghuang's beauty is captured with magnificent artistry in this hand-carved rain tree wood sculpture. Includes an iron stand.

Powerful and beautiful, Naga the dragon and Garuda the eagle symbolize vigorous spirits to the Balinese people. Seji Taram transforms suar wood into an exquisitely detailed panel as he carves it by hand with absolute artistic mastery. According to one of the many Balinese Hindu-Buddhist customs, the dragon represents the relationship between kings and priests, and effigies of the mystical creature are included for their cremation, for it is believed Naga will guide their soul so they may find their way to the next world.

Twin dragons face off, displaying their mighty ferocity. Sculpting warm suar wood, Seji Taram depicts them in exquisite detail. Fierce spikes align along their spines as they bare sharp fangs. In Balinese culture, the dragon symbolizes safety, protection, shelter and clothing.

Decorated with diamonds of ornately embossed aluminum, an owo (snake) gives shape to an extraordinary staff. Eva Asantewa Amakye carves the piece by hand of seasoned sese wood.

Many African societies regard a person with a staff with respect and dignity. Usually associated with age, an elderly person using a staff is believed to have accumulated vast knowledge and wisdom through the years. Traditionally, the design on a staff tells the societal status and political inclination of the person using it.

In the ancient Armenian tradition, the ram represents leadership and courage. Carrying the same symbolism in this refined sculpture by artisan Hayk Torosyan, this ram awakens in an aura of majesty thanks to its apricot wood and iron details.