Myanmar wood carvers continue centuries-old tradition

Wood carving is one of Myanmar’s iconic handicrafts, with detailed sculptures of Buddhas alongside decorated chairs and tables lining the stores of artists throughout the country.

The wood-carving tradition dates back to the Pyu period, an arrangement of city-states that existed in Myanmar between the 2nd and 11th centuries, and has survived to the present day.

Inside the workshops, the colors of the wood pieces create unique patterns in rooms jam-packed with masterpieces, often featuring images of candles, trees and stupas.