Welcome to Above the Fray: Traditional Hilltribe Art

We are collectors and sellers of the world’s finest quality and most unique silk weavings and other art created by master artisans of the hilltribe people in Laos and Vietnam. All items are hand-selected directly from the individual artist or in local village markets.

The artists we represent come from dozens of ethnic groups who live in this remote and mountainous jungle. Despite the challenges of colonialism, war and poverty, the peoples’ millennium-old traditions of symbolic silk weaving and other visual arts have not only been maintained for countless generations, but continue to develop and flourish. Their unique vision, shaped by subsistence farming, a challenging environment, timeless folklore, and a unique blend of animist, ancestor worship, and Buddhist beliefs, has rendered an intricate, unusual and beautiful art.

Above the Fray is based in Eugene, Oregon, USA; every item is carefully selected by us for quality, precision, color-play and charm. A photo of the artist with each one-of-a-kind piece is often available; all website photos are taken by Above the Fray.

Please take a few minutes to visit these most talented artisans and admire some of the world’s most beautiful art.


Naturally-dyed, hand-woven silks, ideal as exquisite wall-art and stunning shawls and scarves. Cottons and hemps also represented.		Meet the master artisans, visit a weaving village, and learn about weaving techniques, looms, materials, dyes, and motifs.


Quality bamboo and rattan baskets, big and small, with warm patinas from care and use.	Authentic masks and other ritual items used by shaman and in ceremony and celebration.	Hand-crafted tools, toys and other wares used in daily hilltribe village life.	Unusual and striking personal décor: earrings, necklaces, combs, and more.