OUR COLLECTION — ASIA — NEPAL 357. KARMA WOOD HOLY FAMILY
We commissioned this set from our Nepali friend Narayan Shilpakar, who is a professional artisan near Kathmandu, Nepal. Narayan is a Christian. The wood is a hardwood called karma wood in the Nepali language and ‘hallu’ in Narayan’s native tongue. The stain is a burgundy brown. The Joseph figure stands 8.25 inches tall.
Traditional Hindu art is mirrored throughout the piece in a blend of Christian and Hindu culture. Mary and Joseph have open palms facing baby Jesus, showing a sign of respect in Nepali culture; holding the palms out to someone is a way of sharing your light and spirit with them. A peaceful backdrop of trees, plants, and river completes the scene.
Traditional Hindu art is mirrored throughout the piece in a blend of Christian and Hindu culture. Mary and Joseph have open palms facing baby Jesus, showing a sign of respect in Nepali culture; holding the palms out to someone is a way of sharing your light and spirit with them. A peaceful backdrop of trees, plants, and river completes the scene.