OUR COLLECTION — ASIA — NEPAL 41. KARMA WOOD NATIVITY
We commissioned this set from Narayan Shilpakar who is a professional artisan near Kathmandu, Nepal. Narayan is a Christian. Each set requires 36 hours to complete. The wood is a hardwood that they call karma wood in the Nepali language and 'hallu' in Narayan’s native tongue. The stain is a medium brown. The Joseph figure stands 4.5 inches tall. The base measures 8.75 inches by 4 inches.
Mary and Joseph are placed at the front of the scene with Jesus between them. Mary and Joseph are both very unique. Mary’s open palms facing Jesus show a sign of respect in Nepali culture; holding the palms out to someone is a way of sharing your light and spirit with them. Joseph holds both a staff and a feather. The two objects balance each other visually, but more important they balance each other symbolically. The feather is a writing instrument and symbolizes learning and knowledge that are balanced by hard work (the staff).
All pieces in this set have pegs that fit into the base, so they are easily removed for storage. The backdrop of the set is an intricate bridge with river flowing under it. Two highly carved trees are situated behind Joseph and Mary.
Mary and Joseph are placed at the front of the scene with Jesus between them. Mary and Joseph are both very unique. Mary’s open palms facing Jesus show a sign of respect in Nepali culture; holding the palms out to someone is a way of sharing your light and spirit with them. Joseph holds both a staff and a feather. The two objects balance each other visually, but more important they balance each other symbolically. The feather is a writing instrument and symbolizes learning and knowledge that are balanced by hard work (the staff).
All pieces in this set have pegs that fit into the base, so they are easily removed for storage. The backdrop of the set is an intricate bridge with river flowing under it. Two highly carved trees are situated behind Joseph and Mary.