Lacquer Work of Odisha

Lacquer Work of Odisha. Odisha is known for its rich art and culture. Odisha, the land of renowned artists and craftsmen, holds a rich artistic tradition that enjoyed liberal patronage from the temples as well as the nobility.
Apart from temples, the enthralling craftwork of Odisha depicts the magic of the deft hands of these artisans and puts forth a perfect medium to get a glimpse of the spectacular world of a craftsmen’s imagination. There are numerous art forms and crafts that reveal the ancient beauty and the refined skills of the artisans of Odisha. These crafts include Stone Carvings, Pattachitra, Sand Art, Silver Filigree, Applique Works, Lacquer Work, Palm Leaf Etching, Brass and Dhokra Works, Papier Mache, Horn Bone Craft, Tassar Patta, Ikat(Tie & Dye weaving), Coir Craft, Odisha Art Bottles, Terracotta Crafts, Santhal and Saora Paintings and an uncountable list.
Lacquer Work is executed in delightful folk designs, and form an important part of a girls’ trousseau in Odisha. Among other beauties of this crafts are the necklaces, bangles and toys. All of these materials are distinctive and therefore in great demand by the cognoscenti.
Bamboo boxes are lacquered in various colours and shades. These bamboo boxes in graduated sizes are widely exported. The accompanying illustrations reveal the sparkle of these boxes. Naturally these boxes make for attractive presentation items on all occasions.
Which area in odisha is famous for the lacquer craft?
We have read that Balasore in Odisha is famous for Lacquer craft or Jau khandei. The fashionable & unique craft is prepared traditionally for over 100 years in Odisha. Lac originates from a beetle excretion called Laccifier Lacca. The excellence of the craft is its vibrating colors ornamented with decorative motifs which are geometric blocks, triangles, leaves employed on terracotta centers to fabricate finished designs i.e. ornaments, dolls, cases, bangles etc.
Also Read: Applique works of Pipili