Santa's
Workshop
Woodcarving has long been a part of Italian
life in the Groden Valley, high in the Dolomite Mountains
of Northern Italy. This is the home of Pema Woodcarvers.
Woodcarving is an artesian craft that is passed down from
generation to generation. Young woodworkers begin as apprentices
honing their skills, and only after many years, reach
the level of Master Carver. Each woodcarving begins as
a block of mountain hardwood that is cured and air dried
for several years before the carving begins, which eliminates
cracking in the finished carving. Each Master Carver carves
his work following his own sketches and ideas. Each piece
is then hand painted with transparent stains and hand
decorated with the finest European paints. When completed,
the masterpiece is signed by the artist. Pema is known
worldwide for their beautiful nativities. They also carve
an extensive selection of Saints, Crucifixes, Holy Families
and Angels. Pema Woodcarvings come direct to us from Italy,
so availability is limited, but Popov's has a lovely selection
of Pema that we would love for you to see.
