thin rings

Glorious sunflower petals surround the elegantly-realized omkara symbol, a meditative mantra found in Hinduism and Buddhism that expresses a universal connection between all things. Balinese artisan Made Mulyani designs this relief panel, carving it by hand of local suar wood.

The om symbol, symbolizing oneness between all things, is captured in suar wood, hand-carved at the center of this relief panel from Bali. Openwork petal designs and small frangipani flowers surround the om, wreathed in a pentagon shape. Eka presents this vibrant piece of home decor.

Permeating Hindu and Buddhist traditions, om is a mantra used during meditation, believed to reverberate with all things in the universe. In this piece, the omkara symbol is hand-carved of Balinese suar wood and elaborated with leaf motifs. By Made Mulyani, this flourishing relief panel makes a calming addition to any home.

Leaning on a log, a whimsical elephant contemplates his role in Thailand's timber industry. Nantana Sompamitre crafts a charming pencil holder in gilded black lacquer. She carves rain tree wood into the desired shape and coats it with lacquer. Once dried it is polished, and another coat is applied – up to twenty times – before as many six coats of pure lacquer are present. The final layer is polished with powdered fired clay. The piece is gilded with a technique called lai rot nam. Sompamitre engraves the motif free-hand with a sharp tool, and the piece is dusted with a wooden powder. Then the background is covered with a gummy paint, and dusted again. A thin coat of lacquer is applied to the entire surface and, before it dries, gold leaves are placed over it and firmly pressed into place. Brass rings protect the openings.

Flowers illuminate bold medallions that surround a wall mirror. Crafted in the traditional style of Cajamarca, the design is warm and beautiful. Asunta Pelaez executes her composition on the reverse side of glass panes, adorned with gilt.