Overall Carving
The artisan carving is an art that consists of sculpting and shaping materials such as wood, stone, coconut and other natural elements to create decorative figures, utensils, masks, animals, religious images and cultural pieces. That work is performed manually using special tools that allow to shape and detail each design.
In Panama, the artisan carving doesn't only have a decorative but also an artistic and cultural function, as the pieces reflect the traditions, customs and creativity of their production communities.
IMPORTANCE
The artisan carving is important because it preserves traditional technologies transmitted from generation to generation, keeping alive Panamanian cultural identity. Also, every piece represents an artistic form of expression that combines skill, patience and creativity.
On an economic level, this activity generates income for many artisan families and strengthens cultural tourism as carved sculptures and figures are greatly appreciated by national and foreign visitors.
Origin and History
The artisan carving in Panama has roots in pre-Hispanic indigenous cultures, whose peoples worked with figures and utensils using wood, stone and bone as part of their daily and ceremonial lives.
With the arrival of the colonial age, carving techniques have been transformed with European influences, especially with the creation of religious images, furniture and decorative ornaments.
With the passing of time, Panamanian artisans have developed their own styles using national natural materials and designs inspired by national flora, fauna and traditions.
Region where it stands out the most
The provinces of Darién, Veraguas and Coclé stand out for the production of pieces carved in wood and other natural materials. Also, indigenous communities such as the Emberá are recognized for their work of artisan carving with designs inspired by nature and ancestral culture.
They also feature handcrafted workshops at Herrera and Los Santos, with decorative figures, masks and traditional objects carved by hand.
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