NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, offers thousands of limited edition and one-of-a-kind gifts, jewelry, and home decor treasures handmade by master artists and artisans throughout the world. Captivating, this petite parasol by Nikom is crafted with special Chinese paper detailed with elegant cranes in a natural bamboo environment. The parasol is versatile for use either in the sun or in the rain, thanks to a waterproof enamel made from pounded persimmon. Artisan Info: "You used to know me through Wicharn Wongkham, a very skilled painter who worked with me. But now that he has left for greener pastures, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Nikom Boontunjeen and I was born in northern Thailand in the early 1960s. I grew up in a village known for their saa paper parasols. I enjoyed a peaceful childhood. I was a regular and filial country child, and often helped my parents crafting umbrellas. "I studied in Bangkok, where I graduated with a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering. Then I came back home and set up my saa paper and umbrella workshop in the late '80s. It was a good decision for my parents, my family and the neighboring villagers. "It was also very inspiring to work with family and friends who shared the same interest. We improved the design as well as the patterns, and changed stages in the procedure and techniques in order to improve the quality. The doors to our workshop are open to the public, so that everyone can come and learn about the
