study decor

This handsome giraffe is not just an elegant addition to home and office decor, and is also a handy cellphone holder. Fernando Castro carve the spotted creature by hand from natural cedar wood and paints it in realistic detail.

Weaving is an ancient tradition in the Andes, and handloomed Inca textiles were once more highly prized than gold. Carrying on the legacy, Eliazar Ochoa creates an intricate tapestry of dazzling beauty. His motifs are inspired by ancient Andean art, executed in a woolen palette of glowing warmth.

Inspired by the mandalas commonly associated with eastern religions, the Ortiz Family in Peru creates this beautiful tray. They work in the time-honored art of reverse-painted glass, whereby motifs are painted on the underside of a glass pane. The glass is set in a wooden frame with a golden finish.

Peru's Rios Family artisans are proud to offer this example of their remarkable leather work. Made of mohena wood and richly hand-tooled leather with a grape and bird motif and brass studs, its design is inspired by intricate saddlework of the colonial era.

This colorful wall hanging is a fascinating study in working with wool. "I used a lot of details in this piece," María Uyauri explains. "This shows the process in the Andes. Sheep are sheared, the wool is washed and dyed, then spun into yarn." In the foreground, a woman weaves on a backstrap loom.

Uyauri creates this beautiful wall hanging in intricate arpillera – embroidered appliqués of fabric cutouts hand-stitched to a background of cotton. Crafted in three dimensions, each figure is lavishly embroidered. A display rod (not included) can slip through an opening at the top.

The art of the Inca adorns this splendid ottoman, in its sumptuous tooled leather by the Ríos Family of Peru. Supported by fine tornillo wood legs, the leather seat is attached to the frame with ornate brass studs.

Under a brilliant cobalt sky studded with golden stars, the nativity unfolds in a scene of pure Andean enchantment, with celestial doves perching on a rustic thatched roof. Mary and Joseph, draped in traditional textiles, watch the Christ child while shepherds gather close, their vibrant Andean garments a testament to Peru's rich cultural tapestry. Created by Dionisio Rojas and brought to life through expert hand-crafting and painting, this ceramic folk art creche transforms the humble stable into a highland sanctuary flanked by charming cacti and watchful white doves. The cascade of stars flowing from heaven to earth, the gentle sheep and the meticulously detailed figures create a joyful fusion of sacred tradition and Peruvian artistry that celebrates both the universal story of Christmas and the distinctive beauty of the Andes.