OWP
Hand-Carved Elephant Tagua Nut Figurine- Large- Fair Trade-Ecuador
Hand-Carved Elephant Tagua Nut Figurine- Large- Fair Trade-Ecuador
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This Large Elephant figurine has been hand carved in Ecuador from tagua nuts, a renewable rain forest seed known as vegetable ivory for its likeness to real animal ivory, but with animal and habitat-friendly properties. All colors are achieved using natural techniques, such as boiling, fermentation, burning, and inlay, that enhance but don't completely cover the nut's organic beauty. Similar to animal ivory, this figurine will gently antique or darken over time.
- Large Elephant Measures 2-3/4” high x 1-1/2” wide x 2-3/4” long
We encourage you to help save rainforests by considering a tagua nut purchase from Low Country Fair Trade. Click on "About the Artisans" below for more information on how tagua nut carvings are made, and how they have helped save thousands of acres of rainforest and wildlife habitat.
Handmade in Ecuador and fair trade imported.
About the Artisans
About the Artisans
Ceramica Quinua, an artisan cooperative known for its social and environmental responsibility, offers steady work to six workshops and 36 families in Ayachucho, Peru. Ceramica Quinua is dedicated to decreasing the use of firewood to reduce deforestation, and as such, works primarily with clay, which is extracted from the land in a controlled manner to avoid erosion.
The artisans shape and fire their pieces in home-based workshops during their nine-hour workday. Children often sit in on the workshops during their free time in so they may learn the trade that's been passed from ancestor to ancestor. The organization also takes pride in offering health care for its craftsmen, and for sharing its environmental knowledge and conservation techniques with students at public schools.
The Quinua district is characterized by the eucalyptus and alder-scented atmosphere of its mountain and forest landscapes. The name Quinua is derived from the Qenwal plant, said to be comparable in beauty only to the Quinuin women. The unique flora and fauna that inhabit the territory are fast becoming a major tourist attraction. Unfortunately, deforestation and pollution from paint chemicals are threatening their existence.
