handcrafted

Nantana Sompamitre orchestrates a floral revelry detailed in green for the design of this decorative box. Hand-carved of mango wood, the etched images are underscored by glossy black lacquer in the tradition of Thai décor.

A florid fantasy etched in jade green showers these hexagonal coasters with beautiful artistry. By Nantana Sompamitre, the mango wood coasters and holder are crafted by hand, featuring a glowing lacquer finish unique to Thailand. The set includes 6 coasters and a stand.

Centrifugal shadows adorn this pot, handcrafted with refined perfection by Daeng Thanunchai. Oval in shape, the pot is available in two colors, red or green, and exudes the intriguing beauty of lacquered bamboo. An original accent for a rustic décor. Not watertight.

To complete this piece, coiled bamboo basketry is firstly carved on a lathe into the desired shape. A mixture of lacquer - obtained from the Gluta usitata tree - and ashes of burnt rice paddy husks is then applied to the object. Upon exposure to air, the mixture dries to form a watertight seal that is polished before another coat is applied. This process is repeated until a rigid base is formed, and a final polishing is executed with sandpaper. Then several coats of pure lacquer are painted on the object, with drying periods in between each coat.

The work is partially polished with sandpaper according to a predetermined pattern - generally concentric - and a few coats of different lacquer colors are applied to the surface. Then the object is left to dry for a few days. The process remains identical for each ensuing color, alternating lacquering and polishing sessions until the design is achieved. The final coat is washed with water and polished with powdered fired clay, offering an irresistible sheen.

Faintly darkened rings orbit this vase's exotic appeal, while a green nebulous stain evokes a sense of antiquity. Daeng Thanunchai handcrafts this piece from coiled bamboo, and transforms it into a mesmerizing work of art with ancient lacquer techniques. This vase is for decorative use only, and makes a rich accent piece. Available in two sizes.