TAGUA (VEGETABLE IVORY)
Tagua (vegetable ivory) comes from a palm tree that grows approximately 8 feet high. In 1946, the ivory was used to make and export buttons.
The vegetable ivory tree can be found in the Panama Canal area.
There are 3 parts: the shell, which is the outer covering of the ivory, and inside it can have 6 to 12 fruits, depending on the size. When the ivory is new, the inner part is edible. In the first stage of growth, it has water and is drinkable. The second growth stage is similar to that of the coconut.
After it hardens, you can start working and carving on it.
The ivory can be harvested after a few years. The fruits fall and are collected in baskets by the Embera.
An ivory carving goes through many processes. First, the Embera artisan must remove the shell. Then, the inner part is scraped out. Then, the artisan must mentally prepare what design to carve, inspired by the different species of birds and animals. The carver uses a small chisel to carve the design.
An ivory carving goes through many processes. First, the Emberá artisan must remove the shell. Then, the inner part is scraped out. Then, the artisan must mentally prepare what design to carve, inspired by the different spices of birds and animals. The carver uses a small chisel to carve the design.
