artistry in wood

Celebrating a joyous occasion, this nativity scene reveals Alejandro Chávez's artistry. Joseph, Mary and the three kings look upon the baby Jesus while the animals kneel in awe. Known as a retablo, this traditional diorama is housed in a colorful chest crafted of wood and painted. Chávez carefully models each figure and paints them by hand.

Captured in profile with her hands over her chest, the Virgin Mary is depicted in meditation in this divine relief panel from Peru. The Montalvo Family artisans design the rectangular panel, carved of cedar wood with a hand-painted finish. A gold-tone halo surrounds the virgin's head.

Bringing a wise and intellectual vibe into your home, this pinewood sculpture takes the shape of an angel that carries books in her arms. Guatemalan artisan Jose Canil Ramos designs this decor accessory, painted by hand with floral motifs.

This wonderful folk art retablo is from Alejandro Chavez in Peru. The nativity-themed retablo is crafted by hand from wood and ceramic, with faux leather hinges on the doors. Such retablos were inspired by the altarpieces first brought to Peru by Spanish conquerors.

This handcrafted wall mirror by Alejandro Chavez is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that seamlessly blends the artistic traditions of Ayacucho, Peru, with contemporary decorative elements. Its wooden frame, meticulously hand-carved and painted, bursts with vibrant colors and delicate floral designs that elegantly frame the central composition. At its heart lies the mirror itself, radiating light and adding visual depth while reflecting not only its surroundings but also the profound cultural and spiritual connection of the Andean people to their heritage. Surrounding the mirror, intricately hand-molded and painted ceramic figurines bring to life everyday and festive scenes from rural Andean life: farmers working the land, musicians playing traditional instruments and dancers dressed in vivid regional attire. Adding further dimension, the piece prominently features a nativity scene and a depiction of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, each rendered with exquisite detail and reverence.

Covet this eco-friendly interpretation of the classic nativity scene, typical of the days spent with family before Christmas. This sculpture integrates the pieces of the scene into a convenient single sculpture, facilitating its safe keeping and preventing the loss of important characters. Inspired by her religion and traditions, Salvadoran artisan Marcela Moran crafts this nativity sculpture from handwoven cotton and naturally occurring fibers from the calabash gourd, jute and agave, following her passion to create sustainable and biodegradable products.

Huddled together inside an Andean hut, the Holy Family welcomes the Three Wise Men in an endearing nativity scene by Alejandro Chavez. Each figurine is crafted of plaster of Paris, hand-painted to vivid realism. "This work represents the blessed welcome of Baby Jesus, the passion and the love towards the world's redeemer," explains the artist.