Maldivian History

Maldivian art and craft is the one of the finest example if the country s rich cultural, background and artistic.  starting from intricately carved tombstones to the beautiful handmade mats, everything points out to the skills of the peoples of the country. These skills have been passed down through generations and craftsmen take pride in possessing these artistic skills. 

Wooden lacquer work is the biggest example of handicrafts. These products are made in Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. In Dhivehi, its known as "Liyelaa Jehun"and involves hollowing out of pieces would to make beautiful looking wooden boxes and decorative objectives. One can find vases, pill boxes, plate, containers with lids and other wooden and articles. These objects are lacquered in red, black and yellow resins. The objects bear colorful floral patterns and motifs.


Lacquer work has been used to decorate the interior of  buildings, and to display the artistry of local craftsmen. In this regard, Lacquer work is used on mostly wood as a coating to prevent it from the weather and to maintain quality of woods for long period of time.

During laajehun, or Lacquer work, a piece of wood is sculpted to the desired form. It is then coated, layer upon layer, with Lacquer of different colors. Once the Lacquer coating is finished, it is polished with dry coconut leaves. The design is hand-etched from memory.



Reference:

Tourism in Maldives.

http://www.tourisminmaldives.com/about-maldives/maldives-art-and-craft.html

National Handi Craft Centre.

http://www.nhc.gov.mv/products.html