ABOUT US
A Lost Art was founded in 1999. We are a direct importer, distributor and wholesaler of high quality hand-carved wooden sculptures, organic wood formations and handicrafts from Southeast Asia. Owner, David Meller’s original goal was to save and preserve the ancient art form of hand-carving and introduce it to the United States.
The Asian market had been forcing artists to create smaller, less detailed sculptures and David’s vision was to resurrect this “lost” art. Through his efforts these beautifully detailed and elaborate creations are once again available. Additionally, A Lost Art has helped to stimulate the local Thai and Balinese economies, creating jobs for many of these incredibly talented artists.
A Lost Art is now the largest importer of strictly hand-carved teak wood elephants in the United States with a vast inventory housed in its Los Angeles warehouse. A Lost Art recently added a new line of products including wooden animal money banks and musical instruments, some of which are created in our own facilities in Asia. It is important to remember that our products are recommended for ages 12 and older.
HAND-CARVINGS - NATURAL ECO-FRIENDLY / FAIRLY TRADED WORK ENVIRONMENTS
Each piece is created from naturally fallen Teakwood and other exotic woods which are among the most durable and long withstanding hard woods found in the area. No living tree is ever cut.
To appreciate this are one must comprehend the complex creative process from the conception of a piece of wood in hand to the completion of a spectacular hand-carved work of art.
The artist carefully select’s the wood for each individual carving to obtain optimum detail and character. Each piece is meticulously carved using special hand tools and wooden mallets. No power tools are ever used!
Color variations are then achieved by dying the wood with indigenous berries, which are only in season one month out of year.
The finishing touch is the artist’s signature on the one-of-a-kind beautiful sculptures.
These magnificent sculptures have found a place in homes and institutions that are dedicated to the preservation of the trinity of nature, animals, and art. (Note: Plantation grown teak has become available in recent years.)
