Toys
POL,
Pewel Wielka
Wiesława and Marian Łoboz are renowned for their toy-making, a craft deeply rooted in the traditions of the Żywiec Beskids. Their hometown, Pewel Wielka, is a celebrated hub for this art. Marian inherited the craft from his family, and Wiesława mastered it under his tutelage. Their sons have since joined the family legacy.
The precision and consistency of their toy designs defy the notion of handmade craftsmanship. Witnessing the couple at work reveals the meticulous care behind each piece. Marian is the skilled craftsman, shaping and finishing the toys, while Wiesława adds a touch of magic through her painting, drawing inspiration from both traditional patterns and her own imagination.
Their repertoire includes classic favorites like rocking horses, whirring birds, and ladder wagons, as well as their signature creation: the enchanting winged horse, or pegasus. The couple are esteemed members of Folk Artists’ Association and were honored with the Oskar Kolberg Award in 2019 for their outstanding contributions to folk culture.
Żywiec and Sucha Beskidzka toy-making traditions were inscribed on Poland’s National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016.







