Wood carving is a timeless art form that reflects the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of societies worldwide. Each continent has developed distinct carving styles, shaped by local materials, beliefs, and historical influences.

In Africa, tribal wood carving dominates, with bold, abstract figures representing spiritual or ancestral themes. The Yoruba people of West Africa are renowned for their intricate masks, while Central African carvers create elongated statues with exaggerated features.

Europe boasts refined techniques like relief carving, seen in Gothic church decorations, and chip carving for geometric patterns on furniture. The Alpine regions specialize in whimsical whittled figurines, while Scandinavia produces minimalist functional carvings.

Asian wood carving often serves religious purposes, evident in the delicate lattice work of Chinese temples and Japan's detailed netsuke miniatures. Southeast Asia excels in ornate mythological creature carvings using tropical hardwoods.

The Americas showcase diverse styles from the totem poles of Pacific Northwest tribes to the rustic folk carvings of Appalachia. Latin American carvers blend indigenous and colonial influences in vibrant santos figures and alebrijes.

Oceania's wood carving tradition features Polynesian ceremonial objects with intricate tribal patterns and Maori meeting houses adorned with symbolic carvings.

These global styles continue evolving while preserving centuries-old techniques, offering a fascinating glimpse into humanity's creative relationship with wood.