Maple Wood Hedgehog Animal Sculpture, Val Gardena Craft

€25,90

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Fine pine wood

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Hand carved

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Natural details in bark

This charming carved hedgehog is a celebration of the encounter between art and nature. The sculpture captures the friendly essence of the animal through a stylized and organic design that skillfully plays with material contrasts.

Crafted with the mastery that only Val Gardena artisans can express, the lower body and snout are shaped from maple wood, hand-polished to a smooth, silky finish that enhances the light, natural grain. Its 11 cm size makes it perfect for any corner of the home.

The visual and tactile contrast is created by the back, where a section of darker, heavily textured wood—evoking the roughness of bark—abstractly simulates the quills. This detail offers a unique sensory experience, while the gentle expression, given by the small eye and engraved smile, makes this hedgehog a small design masterpiece that adds warmth and character to any environment.

Although not a strictly religious figure, the porcupine (or hedgehog) is a symbol rich in meaning in the animal world. It is universally recognized as an emblem of protection and defense, thanks to its armor of quills that allows it to face dangers with caution. In this Dolfi sculpture, however, the stylized and friendly expression, combined with the rounded and welcoming shape, also enhances its aspect as a gentle and protective creature, suggesting that true strength lies in the balance between defense and meekness. Artistically, the strong contrast between the smoothness of the maple wood of the belly and the roughness of the wood used for the back emphasizes the dualism of nature itself: vulnerability and strength in a single, harmonious object.

The carving of wild and domestic animals has deep roots in the sculptural tradition of Val Gardena, developed in parallel with sacred art since the 17th century. Originally, artisans used the winter months to produce small wooden sculptures (such as animal figures or toys) which were then sold throughout Europe. These works were not only decorative objects, but also testaments to the technical skill and observational ability of the natural world, typical of the masters of Gardena. The hedgehog fits into this line of secular and naturalistic creations, keeping alive the tradition of artistic craftsmanship that transforms a simple piece of maple wood into a work of domestic art.

Free shipping in Europe over €79

Delivery times:

Italy: 2-4 days
Europe: 3-7 days
Rest of the world: 7-15 days

Professional packaging to protect your handcrafted piece during transport.

Tracking included - you will receive the number to track your shipment.

Costs calculated automatically at checkout based on weight and destination.

You can return the product within 14 days of receipt if you do not like it with 100% refund

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