Small Hand-Carved Bat from Laos, Golden Triangle Region

This small (2 1/2 inches) carved wooden bat was purchased in Laos in the Golden Triangle region on the Mekong River across from Thailand where we visited in 2025. Made in naturaly dark hardwood, it features a compact stylized bat form and a carved leaf design on the back with inscription-like marks. 

It is a regional market piece made for the tourist trade, though it has genuine hand-crafted character and a nicely finished folk-art quality. A charming small decorative carving from the Laos / Thailand border area, especially appealing for collectors of bat-themed objects and international folk souvenirs.