Small Hand-Carved Wooden Hippopotamus | Val Gardena Sculpture

€15,90

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High-quality natural wood

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Artigianato intagliato a mano

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Symbol of innocence and joy

Immerse yourself in the playful charm of this sculpture, a Little Hippo that embodies the mastery and flair of Val Gardena craftsmanship. The figure stands out for its rounded forms and an almost "cartoonish" stylized aesthetic, immediately capable of bringing a smile to your face.

The dark brown, almost grayish finish is achieved through a stain that enhances the natural grain of the wood underneath, giving the work a textured and authentic look. From its small rounded ears to its happy and dreamy expression, outlined by a simple curved line and an innocent upward gaze, every detail is crafted to convey joy and lightness.

This small collector's gem, standing only 6 cm tall, is hand-carved with extreme precision. According to our tradition and given its compact size, it is made of maple wood, an excellent choice for small sculptures, which guarantees a fine and compact grain ideal for preserving the perfect roundness and graphic detail of its forms.

Although not part of the traditional sacred repertoire, the hippopotamus carries profound symbolism. In Egyptian culture, it was often associated with the goddess Taweret, protector of the home and motherhood. In contemporary sculpture, and particularly in this playful design, it symbolizes gentle strength, domestic protection, and, thanks to its smiling expression and innocent upward gaze, cheerfulness and optimism. It is a small sculptural reminder to face life with lightness and good humor, a good and reassuring "giant" in miniature format.

The art of wood carving in Val Gardena dates back to the 17th century, when the valley's inhabitants began to carve local wood, particularly maple and linden, as a secondary activity during the long winters. What was once a necessity has evolved over centuries into a globally recognized excellence. This stylized hippopotamus is the result of the evolution of such artisanal mastery: while being a modern and playful subject, it is crafted with the same meticulous techniques and dedication used for sacred statues, demonstrating the versatility and artistic heritage that has characterized Val Gardena's carving for generations.

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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