Wood Carving in Val Gardena
One of the oldest crafts still practiced today in the heart of the Dolomites
An Ancient Art
Wood carving in Val Gardena is probably one of the oldest crafts still practiced today. Our region is known for its welcoming hotels and powerful sports facilities, but for many hundreds of years, farmers used the winter months to create art.
For centuries, the farmers of Val Gardena took advantage of the relative inactivity of the dark and cold winter months to create wooden tools, which later evolved into artistic sculpture. Cutlery, cutting boards, and dishes were initially produced for personal use, then offered at markets.
With the refinement of techniques, the carving process evolved from utilitarian production towards artistic works and sacred and secular objects intended for an increasingly refined clientele.
The History of the Tradition
Peasant Origins
Val Gardena farmers used the long winter months to create wooden utensils for domestic use: cutlery, cutting boards, dishes, and plates were produced in homes and sold in local markets.
The First Carvers
As early as 1730, there was a significant number of woodcarvers in Val Gardena. In addition to wooden sculptures, they produced angels, crucifixes, and household items like toys and decorations.
Art Schools
To preserve the knowledge acquired by generations of artisans, several art schools were opened in Val Gardena to teach the precious working techniques to new generations.
The Craft of an Entire Valley!
Wood carving became the economic and cultural heart of Val Gardena, involving entire families and communities.
Traditional Products
From peasant tradition to sacred art, the masters of Gardena have always created a wide range of products
Angels
Angelic sculptures of religious tradition
Crucifixes
Sacred art for churches and devotion
Toys
Wooden creations for children
Chess Sets
Carved chessboards and pieces
Clocks
Decorative timepieces
Decorations
Ornaments for homes
Tradition in the 2000s
Home Production
Even today, many wooden works of art are produced at home, keeping alive the family tradition that has characterized Val Gardena for centuries.
Technology and Tradition
Although modern machinery simplifies some processes, a high percentage of manual labor remains in the preparation and finishing.
Unique Personality
Manual work gives DOLFI wooden figures a unique and exclusive personality, distinguishing them from industrial production.
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Experience the centuries-old tradition of Val Gardena sculpture. Each piece contains hundreds of years of craftsmanship and the authentic soul of the Dolomites.
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