Carving

Carving in both wood and stone has been part of the Cherokee craft tradition for millennia.  In addition to making items of practical daily use, such as dishes, ladles, trays, and bows and arrows, Cherokee carvers made "stick ball" sticks for playing a favorite game and masks for ceremonial dances.
 
Hand-carved furniture created by Cherokee artists is in demand today, as are the traditional "False Face" ceremonial masks.  These hand-chiseled art objects have become collectors' items and are exhibited in many galleries as well as being decorative pieces in private homes.  The masks also continue to be used in their traditional role, as part of Cherokee ceremonial dances and rituals.