art deco sculpture

Carved by hand from pinewood, this unique nativity scene is comprised of nine pieces. Jose Canil Ramos depicts the Holy Family with an angel, the Three Kings, a donkey and a cow. The figures appear as calaveras, literally "skulls," a popular theme in Guatemala for the Day of the Dead, November 2.

The angel's wings and Joseph's staff are removed for shipping, and cotton felt fabric protects the base of each figurine.

Like a medallion from an ancient Hindu temple, Om appears on a wall sculpture by Thai artisan Somyot Sawasdee. He crafts the round wall panel by hand with recycled paper and cement, and finishes it with green and gold paint, creating the illusion of an aged bronze piece. The plaque features a hook on the back for hanging.

In Hindu tradition, Om (also Ohm or Aum) is a sacred incantation to be intoned at the beginning and end of a reading of the Vedas, as well as prior to any prayer or mantra.

Artisan Carlos Mendez in Mexico crafts this pretty box from copal wood and paints it by hand in the style of Oaxacan alebrije sculptures. The narrow box is just right for storing jewelry and other small treasures.

This playful monkey can hang in any position thanks to the brass hooks on its hands, feet and tail. Somyot Sawasdee designs and sculpts the mischievous creature by hand, with recycled paper and cement. The Thai artist finishes the wall sculpture with green and gold paint, creating the illusion of an aged bronze piece.

A playful, excited cat makes a vibrant and fun addition to any home, handcrafted from copal wood and maguey plant fibers in the style of traditional alebrijes. Mexican couple Zeny and Reyna proudly paint this sculpture by hand, drawing inspiration from their cultural roots to cover the cat in bright floral motifs against a teal body. Small parts are separated for shipping to protect from breakage.