Handmade Olive Wood

6 x 17 x 6 cm / 2.3 x 6.7 x 2.3 in

The tradition of carving olive wood in Palestine goes all the way back to the 4th century, mainly in Bethlehem, which continues to be the main city to produce this type of handicrafts until today. This art has gone through different phases since then as it became a major industry in the area during the 16th and 17th century. Carvers have been passing the skills and the passion for this art from one generation to another, keeping it alive, and improving the production process and quality all the way through. Our pieces here are a collection from a number of carvers and families, who share their Christian heritage and stories, keeping them vital for us all.