This unique piece of art comes from the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and Northern Mexico. It was handcrafted from desert Ironwood (Olneya Tesota), a very dense and heavy wood of intriguing origin.

To be suitable for carving, the wood must be exposed to the extremities of the climatic conditions that exist only in the desert. Years of exposure in his hot, dry environment cause the natural resins to collect, condense and cure, thus transforming the wood into very dense and heavy ironwood.

Ironwood carving is an unusually demanding art form originated by the Seri Indians, a small tribe that have dwelled in the great Sonoran Desert for thousands of years. Once the wood has been gathered, each piece is handcrafted using very simple tools. It requires long hours of carving, hand sanding and polishing, plus an artistic "eye" to effectively capture the beautiful burl and distinctive grain inherent to Ironwood. The result of this hand work is that no two pieces are identical. There is a limited supply of true Ironwood and a diminishing number of carvers. It is possible that your purchase may appreciate in value.

To preserve your art piece, polish with a soft cloth and occasionally apply a light coat of neutral paste-type shoe wax.

Tracking is provided on all orders; any order placed before 11am CST will ship the same day, any order placed after 11am CST will ship the following business day.

Ironwood Art 4" Land Turtle 1700