Näidustava
Näidustava refers to a traditional Estonian folk art form that involves the creation of intricate, hand-carved wooden figures, often depicting animals, mythical creatures, or human figures. The term originates from the Estonian word *näidustama*, meaning "to demonstrate" or "to show," reflecting the art’s purpose of storytelling and cultural expression. This craft has deep roots in Estonian rural culture, particularly in regions like Saaremaa and the coastal areas of western Estonia, where it was historically used to convey religious, mythological, or everyday narratives.
Näidustava figures are typically crafted from hardwoods such as oak or pine, with meticulous attention to detail
The art form declined significantly in the 20th century due to modernization and urbanization but experienced