Lacquer Ware

The art of wood carving in Kerala has a golden history. It is one the most traditional form of Kerala handicrafts. Rosewood, sandalwood, coconut tree wood, white wood, cedar wood, teak wood are axed and carved to chisel out amazing mementoes, door frames, furniture, windows, temple ceilings and a host of other products, bearing the stamp of tradition and aesthetic brilliance. In fact, the ancient work of Matsya Purana enumerates the prevalence of carved wooden door frames which was deemed to be a ritual to welcome visitors. The temples of Kerala, sites of rich cultural heritage, were adorned with the grand and painstakingly carved out motifs of the flora and fauna of the state, coupled with mythology and the various performing arts poses.

Besides the traditional wood handicraft, Kerala is also famous for its lacquer artisans. It is a blend of wood art and metal work. Like ivory handicraft, this too demands keen aesthetic sensibility precision. Rose wood and white wood are usually used for lacquer art. The artisan, first, carves out the pattern on the wood. The design is then pasted on a sheet of ply wood and given a smooth texture. Brass and other metal ornamentation embellishes the shining wooden artifact. Ernakulam is well known its lacquer artisans. Themes, motifs, and patterns range from mythology and performing arts, especially the stellar Kathakali, to the flora and fauna of the verdant backwaters. Butterflies, peacocks, candle stands, key chains are some of the cherished mementoes that tourists love to collect. Cone- shaped Nettoor jewelry boxes with brass adorned corners are also coveted items.

The traditional heritage of temple wood art, like many others, is, however, in danger of becoming extinct.

Maps of India provides you with all the necessary information on the lacquer ware of Kerala along with a tour of the other famous handicrafts of the region.

Last Updated on 27 May 2011