Wood carving is one of the world’s oldest crafts but it would be difficult to find a culture more passionate about this artform than the Khmer people.
Ancient masters of stone carving perfected designs by using wood as prototypes before creating some of the most renowned artifacts and monuments of Angkor and pre-Angkorian times. Due to the use of wood for training artisans and designing epic works of art, wood carving has enjoyed a rich heritage, and continues to be incredibly popular among modern generations of Cambodians.
Every market across the country sells intricate wooden figurines and statues, but sadly, many items are mass produced or foreign made. The Fair Trade Village’s many statues, homewares and decorative items are authentic handmade works created by skilled artisans from local communities.
Depending on the scale and intricacy of the wood carving, they can take between three and ten days to complete. Popular items include sculptures and busts depicting Hindu gods, the Buddha, wildlife and village life.
