Re: Monday answer
John gets a BIG gold star for his forehead because he is correct, and also because he made a leap to get it over a less than well constructed question.
The answer is marquetry as is done by the artisans of Morocco especially the city of Essaouira.
According to �Fine Woodworking� magazine and author Cindy Ross, Morocco�s city by the sea is the location for some of the finest hand cut and fitted examples in the world. Using various woods, a donkey load of seven four foot logs is enough to supply a craftsman for three to four months. The article states that the author bought half dozen small boxes for $3 to $5 each.
Also from the web. �Essaouira is famed for its high-quality and unique wood-carving workshops. To sample the great variety of carved woods, head down to Rue de Skala to see artisans painstakingly produce amazing marquetry work in the various marquetry and wood-carving workshops built into the ramparts.
Goods range from little containers and boxes to magnificent chests and intricately carved tables." Vases, urns, and caskets are also made. "To gauge quality and prices, we suggest you visit the emporium at Afalkay Art at Place Prince Moulay Al Hassan.�
Afalkay Art Gallery does have a rather vast selection of finely crafted goods and, even if you are not inspired to buy anything, it will give you a good idea of what is available and what the going rates for specific items are. Most of the carved wood items in Morocco are made of �thuya wood� (Tetraclinis articulate). This unusual wood comes from a coniferous tree that grows on the western foothills of the Atlas Mountains. The wood is �harvested� by removing outgrowths on the roots of thuya trees which means that the entire tree does not have to be cut down in order to be used. The resulting burled grain is a delight to look at and is something that is exclusive to northern Africa.
This beautiful wood is used to craft a delightful range of wooden gifts such as jewelry boxes or treasure chests. You can also purchase small sculptures from this wood, but these are somewhat more unusual since most craft-styled arts in Morocco have a practical aspect to them and Islam usually does not favor depicting human images in art.. Once the item is created, the craftsman will usually rub lemon juice and vegetable oil into the wood for hours to reveal and highlight the wood's natural grain. So, if you�d like to purchase a truly unique and special treat for a loved one back home, the Afalkay Art Gallery may not be a bad place to start. You�ll find it at 9 Place Prince Moulay el Hassan in Essaouira.
Five examples: http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/p/m/338224