A simplified figure of the Holy Family carved in Olive Wood. The Olive Wood figures measure approximately 5.0" (12 CM) in height. Hand carved in Bethlehem.
Olive Wood Carving in Bethlehem: Olive wood carving began around 4th century CE under Byzantine rule in Bethlehem following the construction of the Church of the Nativity.
Originally Greek Orthodox monks taught local residents how to carve olive wood. The work involves skillful and detailed chiseling of Olive wood and is considered a major source of income for the Christian residents of Bethlehem and the surrounding areas.
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