monkey

Hanuman, a monkey devotee to Lord Rama, meets with Rama's lover, Sita, in this beautifully-crafted relief panel from Bali. Ketut Sandi creates this depiction from the Hindu epic Ramayana, diligently hand-carving this scene from a slab of cempaka wood. The duo is realized with stunningly intricate details, surrounded by a vast jungle.

In this magnificent Suar wood mask, Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family captures the beauty and poise of Sita, wife of the Hindu Lord Rama. She works the wood with supreme mastery and exquisite detail. Sita's smooth complexion is framed by an intricate headdress, allowing for a remarkable contrasting texture.

In the Ramayana epic, Sita is kidnapped by Rawana, the demon-king, and held hostage in his palace. Rawana coaxes Sita to stay with him and be his lover. Sita shields herself from Rawana's lust long enough for her husband, Rama, and an army of monkeys to rescue her. Sita now represents supreme devotion and compassion.

After years of preparation and intense learning, bhiksu monks are ordained to follow a life of meditation in search of nirvana. Inspired by the wise and serene nature of the most famous monks, Indonesian artisan Wayan Rendah creates this suar wood sculpture depicting a mediative bhiksu in his daily mission of reaching enlightenment.

Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family delicately carves the heroic royal couple of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The epic poem tells the story of Rama, the seventh incarnation of the god Vishnu, who eventually wins Sita in marriage. Displaced as rightful heir to his father's throne, Rama goes into exile with Sita and his brother Lakshmana. Sita is later abducted by the demon-king Ravana. Rama, with the aid of the monkey general Hanoman, searches for Sita and slays Rawana, rescuing her. Rama then regains his throne. Rumors and gossip accuse Sita of adultery during her captivity. Although innocent, she bears Rama's twin sons in exile, sheltered by the hermit Valmiki, the author of the poem. Many years pass, but eventually, Rama and Sita reunite in love. This elegant sculpture by Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family was created in suar wood which is responsible for the richness of color that can be seen in this masterpiece.

Standing on a lotus blossom, a monk closes his eyes in meditation. Nyoman Sudiana realistically portrays the serene features, graceful posture and flowing gown. He carves this exquisite image from Balinese suar wood.

With a gleeful expression that radiates joy, this natural suar wood sculpture by Balinese artisan Wayan Rendah captures the essence of Budai, also known as Hotei, the 10th century Chinese monk and Buddhist deity fondly nicknamed as the Laughing Buddha. The meticulously carved facial features and the heart-shaped hand gesture make this a character-filled figurine that brings warmth and positive energy to any space in your home.

Peacefulness, piety and a humble spirit are expressed in this mask by Made Tresna. He depicts a praying monk on this Balinese prayer figure. "Balinese people believe they will reach a peaceful eternity after life, but all their sins should be washed away with karma and piety," the artisan explains.

He carves the mask from hibiscus wood. This wood varies widely in its tones and patterns, thus each mask is an absolutely unique work of art.