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Hand carved from tagua nuts
Eco-friendly and sustainable material
Natural colors enhance organic beauty
Supports rainforest conservation efforts
Fair trade imported from Ecuador
The Mother Pig with Piglets Tagua Nut Figurine is a stunning representation of craftsmanship and sustainability. Hand-carved in Ecuador from tagua nuts, this figurine is not only a beautiful decorative piece but also a testament to eco-friendly practices. Tagua nuts, often referred to as 'vegetable ivory', are a renewable resource that resembles animal ivory, making them an ethical alternative for artisans and consumers alike.
This exquisite figurine measures 1-3/4 inches high, 2-1/4 inches wide, and 2 inches deep, making it a charming addition to any collection or home decor. The intricate details of the mother pig and her piglets showcase the skill of the artisans who create these pieces, ensuring that each figurine is unique.
All colors used in the Mother Pig with Piglets figurine are achieved through natural techniques, including boiling, fermentation, burning, and inlay. These methods enhance the organic beauty of the tagua nut without completely covering its natural texture. Over time, similar to animal ivory, the figurine will gently antique or darken, adding character and charm.
By choosing to purchase tagua nut products, you are contributing to the preservation of rainforests. The collection and harvesting of tagua nuts provide sustainable livelihoods for local communities in Ecuador, reducing their reliance on logging and wildlife trafficking. This practice has helped save thousands of acres of rainforest and wildlife habitat, making each purchase a step towards environmental conservation.
The creation of tagua nut figurines involves a meticulous five-step process: shaping, detailing, sanding, polishing, and drying. Artisans use circular sandpaper to shape the figurine, followed by detailing with a Dremel tool. The piece is then sanded with fine sandpaper, polished with a buffing cloth, and dried under a heat lamp to prevent cracking. This careful process ensures that each piece is crafted to perfection.
Tagua nuts are seeds that grow in pods called 'cabezas' from the tagua palm tree. Villagers collect these nuts, which fall naturally to the rainforest floor, providing a sustainable source of income. The harvesting of tagua nuts encourages locals to protect the rainforest, as their livelihoods depend on its preservation.
Naya Nayon, an Ecuador-based NGO, plays a crucial role in supporting artisans who create tagua nut products. By providing training, tools, and materials, they empower local artisans to work from home and create beautiful pieces that reflect their culture and heritage. This initiative not only helps combat poverty but also promotes responsible forest management.
Investing in the Mother Pig with Piglets Tagua Nut Figurine means supporting sustainable practices and contributing to the livelihoods of artisans in Ecuador. Each figurine is a unique work of art that embodies the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. Add this charming piece to your collection and make a positive impact on the environment.