This marvelous decorative box is the creation of Peru's Asunta Pelaez, who works in the time-honored art of reverse-painted glass. The butterflies and floral motifs are carefully hand-painted on the backs of glass panes and then installed on the wooden box. Golden paint adorns the edges.
 

Product Features: 

• Dimensions: 2" H x 7.75" W x 3.9" D
• Weight: 0.86
• Color: Red
• Material: MDF, glass
• Origin: Made in Peru

Story Behind the art:
My passion for art comes from the depths of my heart. It's in my DNA. From childhood, I attended all the drawing and painting classes at school. I spent many hours there and I learned well. Once I had mastered the paintbrush and colors, I loved to set my creativity free. I really enjoyed my art classes. My time was spent in school, in art workshops, and at home.

A short time later, disaster stuck. I lost my parents when I was still a girl and it was devastating to me. Our five children stayed with our aunt and uncle, and other close relatives helped look after us. We eventually moved to Lima where we tried to go on with our lives. Our goal was to become the best we could be and overcome life's obstacles in memory of our parents.

In Lima, I began studying accounting while visiting workshops and helping my aunt and uncle. At school there, I met the man who would become my husband, my best friend, and my life teacher. He courted me through his art. He taught me what he knew about reverse painted glass and suggested I collaborate in his workshop.

When I went to his workshop, I hadn't the slightest idea of what would happen or if my work would be good enough. But I thought back in time and remembered how I was good at drawing and painting. Then I felt more secure and was happy to learn this traditional Andean art form with techniques that have been handed down over generations.

I fell in love with this beautiful work and the lovely designs we're able to create. I was really impressed. Since then, I've spent my whole life doing what I love most. Reverse-painted glass isn't only my work. It's become a way of life. I strive to do even better by studying every detail and becoming a master artisan so I can be the best I can be, together with my family.

I originally began to learn thanks to the influence of my husband's family. But over time, we've unified our abilities and work. Little by little, I learned to design and paint. It's so satisfying to be able to dedicate myself full-time to what I enjoy most.

I follow a meticulous process, carefully shaping the wood to give it a pleasing form. This whole process demands incredible patience and attention to detail. The motifs are painted by hand on the reverse side of glass panes, which are inlaid onto the mirror frames, trays, and decorative boxes.

My designs are inspired by nature, and by typical scenes from my town and region. I feel very proud of the works that I create, and I look forward to sharing them with more and more people around the world.

When you began purchasing my designs, you brought about a great change in my life, economically, of course, and personally as well, because I really value your recognition of my work. You make me feel good about myself, and encourage me to keep moving ahead. 

The handmade touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size, and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.

Imported