sculptures of hands

This exquisite traditional sculpture is hand carved in crocodile wood by Nyoman Indrawati Subrata. Unlike most traditional Balinese dances, the Janger dance allows both men and women to dance together. During the dance, twelve men move aggressively while twelve women sing and sway from side to side.

Diminutive though she may be, this magnificent elephant is a fine example of jali openwork, a traditional style of carving in India. The artisan hand-carves the small but mighty beast from a single piece of wood, and even carves a miniature elephant figurine within the body. Devender Garg from India presents the beautiful statuette.

Perched on a topiary tree, a peacock enjoys the freedom of his palace garden. The bird and companions are sculpted from a single block of kadam wood. This astonishing statuette from Suresh and Devender Garg features an adult peacock with a smaller bird on its back and a third tiny peacock inside the latticed body. The exquisite birds were favorites with royal courtiers of the Mughal empire and figure widely in contemporary Indian art.

Master carver Suresh and Devender Garg presents this ornate sculpture of a regal peacock on a pedestal. It is carved by hand in jali style, transforming kadam wood into a detailed work of art.

Buddha's peaceful image is inspiring as a sense of inner peace radiates from serene features. Balinese master carver Wayan Rendah evokes the divine personage in a reverent sculpture.

In this incredibly detailed wood relief panel from Bali's Ketut Sandi, the four-armed Hindu goddess Saraswati reigns supreme. The beautifully hand-carved wall sculpture depicts Saraswati surrounded by tropical flora, and features a number of symbolic items. The wood's rich grain is showcased by the light natural finish.

The four arms of Saraswati denote Her omnipresence and omnipotence. The two front arms indicate Her activity in the physical world, and the two back arms signify her presence in the spiritual world. A book in the rear left hand signifies that knowledge acquired must be used with love and kindness, to promote prosperity of mankind.A rosary in the rear right hand (representing ego) conveys that true knowledge, acquired with love and devotion, melts the ego and results in liberation (moksha) of the seeker from bondage to the physical world.The Goddess is shown playing a musical instrument that is held in her front hands, which represents the mind and intellect. Saraswati uses the swan as Her vehicle, indicating that one must acquire and apply knowledge with discrimination for the good of mankind.

With eyes closed, this mask evokes an ambiance of contemplative peace. Dynamic details appear stolen from the absent forehead, as Nyoman Naranata composes a vision of negative space. Elaborated in hibiscus wood, this hand-carved piece is certain to attract attention in any setting.

Wood grain and tone will vary from mask to mask.

Hibiscus wood exhibits colors ranging from white to light gray, dark gray or even black heartwood. This natural occurrence can rarely be replicated, making each carving exceptionally unique. Please expect slight differences in wood grain color and distribution patterns. Theme and artistic quality remain the same.

Floral tendrils envelop a demure mother elephant. Carved in dainty jali, or openwork, her tummy reveals three perfect miniature elephants inside. Gulam Rasool presents the pachyderms sculpted from natural soapstone.

Fierce fangs and a flowing mane are meticulously detailed in this hand-carved wood mask from Bali's Made Mulyani. She designs this mask of a barong macan, meaning 'Tiger King'--a mythological Balinese creature that can take many different animal forms. The natural variegation of the acacia wood and the dark eyes add richness and depth to the carving.

Minarets are towers built into or near mosques, and one of the most beautiful ones in the world is the Kalyan minaret which can be found in the Po-i-Kalyan mosque in the city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Also known as the "Great Minaret," this spectacular landmark is the theme for a marvelous statuette by Shavkat Ashurov carved in meticulous detail from untreated walnut wood which gives this fabulous decorative accent a unique rustic finish.

The regular coils of the nautilus shell find expression in hand-carved jars. A master at traditional jali or openwork carving, Gulam Rasool presents this beautiful pair of soapstone jars.

With a faraway gaze, a young woman dreams of her sweetheart. Wayan Kandiyasa works in sandstone to create the portrait of a person who is deeply in love.