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Buying Wood Carvings
Look for a carving that radiates a vitality that possesses an inner life of its own. Some figurine carving is unique with faces of painstaking detail. Always bargain; high, fixed prices are intended for the tour bus participants who don't have time to bargain. If the price is reasonable, buy it. If the seller claims that an article is made of pure sandalwood from East Nusa Tenggara, there's a 99% chance it is some cheap imitation like coffee-wood, even if it smells like sandalwood. Also beware of bargain prices for 'ebony' carvings. True ebony is expensive, very dense, heavy, and has a glossy, reddish-brown striped surface. If the statue is painted, it's difficult to detect defects in the wood. Check for cracks and make sure all attached parts-like wings, crowns, and feet-are properly fitted. Have the carver explain any discoloration. To prevent the wood from cracking and shrinking in more temperate Western climes, some dealers have drilled a large cavity within the statue to allow moisture to escape. The bottoms of truly old statuary have not been touched. Explore Denpasar's Art Center (Taman Werdi Budaya, Jl Nusa Indah in Abiankapas, a suburb of Denpasar) before making any purchases. Here you'll see a wide range of carving. |
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