A central circle and four directional cut
outs represents emanating light. Features tapered ends, with mineral oil
finish sides and natural wood grain front and back. Comes on a black,
adjustable 25" cord. Pendant: 1 1/4"l x 3/4"w. Origin - West Bank
The Holy Land Handicraft Cooperative Society represents Palestinian
artisans working in the occupied territories on the West Bank of the
Jordan River. The Holy Land Cooperative was founded in 1981 by olive
wood and mother-of-pearl artisans as a response to the deteriorating
Palestinian handcrafts industry and to preserve the centuries-old craft
and design traditions of the area.
Focusing
on opening international markets to counter the decline of local sales,
the work of the Holy Land Cooperative alleviates poverty, increases
employment, and strengthens the local community while preserving
Palestinian handicraft traditions. The 36 members of the cooperative
and additional 50 non-member workshops who work with the cooperative are
located in the cities of Beit Sahour, Beit Jala, and Bethlehem.
The
tradition of olive wood and mother-of-pearl carving has deep roots in
the Bethlehem region. For generations, artisans have made carvings for
Christian pilgrims visiting holy sites in the West Bank and Israel and
the area is dotted with family workshops. The separation wall between
Israel and the West Bank has taken a toll on artisans, due to the
restrictions on the movement of people and goods and the sharp decline
in tourism.
