quirky home decor

This triangular barro negro pencil holder is handcrafted by artisan Anakarem of Oaxaca, who works as a team with his father. Barro negro, literally translated as "black mud," is a type of pottery from clay only found in Oaxaca, Mexico, and crafted using traditional methods. The black color comes from the clay itself, enhanced during the firing process. This pencil holder has two quarter flowers on a diagonal on each side made through a combination of embossing and decorative cutouts.

Graciela Orozco works in ceramic to depict a sturdy black boot of the kind children wore to school a hundred years ago. She masterfully captures the details such as stitching across the toe, the thick sole, the worn leather and untied shoelaces. Pretty enough to display on its own, it van also be used to hold a small potted plant, however it does not provide for drainage.

Togog Suyasa's whimsical pair of giraffe statuettes will bring an unexpected element to your home decor. The Balinese artisan hand carves each statuette from albesia wood before painting the pair in a spotted motif. Polyester cords connect their hinged limbs, allowing them to rotate.

Never fear; Togog Suyasa's sleek black cat statuette will only bring you luck. The Balinese artisan hand carves the statuette from albesia wood before painting the feline black with a distressed finish. Polyester cords connect her hinged limbs, allowing them to rotate.

Topped with a striped tabby cat, Fida Hussain's decorative papier mache box makes a charming piece of home decor. The Indian artisan starts with weeping willow wood, pasting strips of paper around the box before buffing the surface smooth. Finally, the box is hand painted, then given a coat of glossy lacquer for shine and protection.