How do I clean dark timber statues?

Dust the carvings gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent dirt accumulation in the crevices. Avoid using liquid polishes or water, which can damage the aged patina of the wood. Keep the pieces away from direct sunlight and radiators to prevent the timber from drying out and splitting over time.

Where should I place these statues?

Position larger sculptures on sturdy sideboards or low tables where their weight and height command attention in a room. Smaller figures suit bookshelf displays or desk settings. Ensure the placement area maintains a stable indoor climate free from sudden temperature fluctuations.

How are Chinese and Japanese styles different?

Chinese carvings often focus on smooth, polished surfaces depicting deities, auspicious animals, and immortals with deep symbolic meaning. Japanese pieces frequently incorporate visible tool marks and folk art traditions reflecting daily life and nature. Both traditions rely on dense hardwoods but express regional aesthetic values through posture and subject matter.

What does root wood mean?

Root wood carvings utilise the gnarled, twisting burls found beneath the soil, shaped by nature into dramatic, undulating forms. Artisans then carve supplementary details into these natural shapes to create figures or animals. Every root carving remains entirely unique because no two tree root systems grow in the same pattern.