Afroza Ishaq

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Growing up in the valley of Srinagar (Kashmir) was such an awesome experience – in fact the valley is usually referred to as 'heaven of earth.' The scenic beauty has always attracted tens and thousands of tourists every year. Apart from being a beautiful state, Kashmir also boasts of many rich crafts for every household practices one craft or another either as a business or as a hobby.

I come from an artistic family specializing in the traditional craft of walnut wood carving. My father was a walnut craftsman, I remember him hand-carving awesome pieces which I admired.

"Then, I got married to Sajad [Novica featured artist] who also comes from a family who has inherited the rich traditional craft of Kashmir. When I got married, I brought the craft of walnut carving along with me. Although I do not craft now, I know every aspect of the carving process Before marriage, I would help my father designing the pieces. We used to discuss the design part – it was fun.

"Sajad and I added walnut wood pieces to his amazing collection of treasures! We started recruiting carvers and slowly we started showcasing these amazing pieces together.

"Apart from the beautiful boxes, we also carve exclusive furniture and other decorative items. I am sure Novica customers will appreciate and support my craft as much as they have supported my husband. I hope that I am able to continue promoting this traditional craft that I have inherited from my family."

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NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.

Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.

Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.

The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.

For best chance of delivery for Christmas, place orders using Standard Shipping by December 14th. United States shipping only. Expedited shipping is unavailable. Allow for 1-2 days extra processing time. This product may ship separately from other products in your order and may have longer than normal shipping timelines as it will ship directly from its country of origin.

All sales of this product are final -- we do not accept returns or issue replacements unless there is a defect with the product. Please review our Returns & Exchanges policy.