Gourds

This is an actual gourd that had been cleaned out, carved and made into a wonderful piece of art. They are fabulous products of nature that have been used around the world since ancient times although those gourds were used for more useful objects like bowls, water containers or even musical instruments.
I've seen some whimsical bird houses made from gourds as well. Their fruit is not edible and their shell is hard so it can be carved similarly to wood. I think it makes for a great Halloween decoration. I got mine recently in a craft village and love the warm orange glow it gives off when lit.