About The Carvings
The beautiful carvings are created from various materials. Sandalwood and Jade are the cherished media of these artisans.
Sandalwood
I began collecting sandalwood carvings for myself. I appreciated the texture and smell that is unique to sandalwood. Sandalwood is grown in India and Myanmar. The Indian Sandalwood is of the highest quality. The unique scent of sandalwood is revered by the Hindu people who believe that the wood has been scented by the gods. The sandalwood tree is cherished and only a tree of thirty years or more is used for wood. Legend surrounds this rare wood. Many believe that no other tree can grow where sandalwood has lived. Others believe that the intoxicating aroma of the wood attracts snakes that wrap themselves around the scared tree.
In India, the sandalwood tree cannot be claimed as personal property even if it grows in your garden. It is the property of the government and permission to cut even a single branch requires the authorization of the state.
Jade
Jade is another favored medium for the artists. Throughout history, the most revered images of Buddha have been captured in jade. The “Emerald Buddha” located in the Grand Palace in Bangkok is a prime example of the beauty of this art form. The highest quality of jade is found in Myanmar.
The People and Their Art
The gracious people of the Golden Lands express their love of their god and their appreciation of nature through their intricate carvings. The art of wood and stone carving is one that is passed on within the family for generations. I have been privileged to know many of these families. They not only share their love of art but their beliefs. They are welcoming and gracious and their character is clearly reflected in the beauty of their work. One such family, Aung Thein, have created many of the carvings shown here.
The Significance
The intricate carvings are reflections of the beliefs of the people. Buddha is represented in various poses that signify his personal stages of development. He is captured throughout his journey towards enlightenment. The significance is found in his hand gestures, known as “Mudra.” The collection includes carvings that represent these stages of development, Meditating Buddha, Contemplating Buddha, Enlightened Buddha, Teaching Buddha, Standing Buddha and others.