Pakil’s Delicate Art of Wood Shaving

 

 

Neighboring lakeshore towns of Lumban, Paete and Pakil are frequented by art enthusiasts for their unique and unparalleled craftsmanship. If Lumban Embroidery is sought after by the fashionistas and Shopping for Authentic Paete Woodcarvings excites art collectors alike, Pakil’s delicate art of wood shavings is admired both locally and worldwide. 

 

 

The fame and rustic charm of the quiet town of Pakil lie in the centuries-old religious ritual of the Turumba sa Virgen and an inimitable art of whittling, a delicate version of woodcarving. Both are distinct to the town.  

 

 

 

Conchita Mirabella has been practicing her unique skill of carving wood shavings since 1977. She uses knives of different thicknesses and lengths to create flowers, butterflies, birds, peacocks, swan and fans that show intricate detail. The delicate filigree is whittled from a young, solid branch of a freshly cut lanite, batikuling, amlang, or quetaña tree. These types of wood are preferred for their malleability and lightness in both weight and color. 

 

  

  

   

Conchita confidently demonstrated her skill to us. Using a sharp-edged knife, Conchita first smoothens out the branch surface by shaving off the rough outer layers. With extreme control, she then carved in the wood and shaved fine tuffs with her dexterous hands. Resting down her tools, Conchita spreads out her work and right before us, a butterfly in full wings take shape. This she did in a matter of minutes. 

 

  

 

Conchita explained that some finished products are dyed while other are left in their natural bleached shade. She added that it depends on the request of the client. These wood-shaven products have become popular as gift items, party favors, and even Christmas tree trimmings. Some were mounted and framed to become souvenir items. Orders have come from different parts of the world. In fact, Conchita herself was invited to demonstrate her skill in different countries. 

 

 

No one can clearly recall how this art form has started. Some local folk claim that an old man introduced the craft of whittling during the turn of the century. The skill has been passed on from one generation to the present. Today, master carvers encourage apprenticeship of interested boys and girls to make sure that this craft distinct only in Pakil continues to thrive. Supply of raw material is sustained by replanting of trees used for this delicate art.

 

This is the last part of a series on Pakil.

Click here fot part one of this series.