The Art of Lacquer Work: Preserving a Dying Maldivian Tradition

Lacquer work, known locally as Liyelaa Jehun, is a stunning and intricate art form deeply embedded in the Maldivian culture. Once a common craft practiced across numerous islands, it’s now facing extinction, with only a handful of artisans remaining dedicated to preserving this unique heritage. This article delves into the history, techniques, and challenges surrounding this beautiful but fading art, offering insights into how we can help keep it alive.

The Rich History of Liyelaa Jehun

The origins of Maldivian lacquer work are shrouded in some mystery, but its roots are believed to trace back to ancient trade routes between the Maldives and Southeast Asia, particularly China. Evidence suggests that the technique arrived in the Maldives centuries ago, possibly brought by traveling merchants or skilled artisans. Over time, the Maldivians adapted the craft, incorporating their own distinct style and motifs, resulting in a unique form of lacquer art.

Historically, lacquer work held both practical and symbolic significance. Items such as vases, boxes (known as kulaa), and containers were not only functional household objects but also served as symbols of status and wealth. Elaborately decorated pieces were often presented as gifts to dignitaries and used in royal ceremonies. The patterns and colors used in the lacquer work were often symbolic, reflecting elements of Maldivian culture, beliefs, and the natural environment. For instance, certain designs might represent prosperity, protection, or a connection to the sea. In some communities, specialized lacquer items were commissioned for specific religious or community events.

During the reign of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, lacquer work flourished, with the island of Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll becoming a major center for its production. The island’s isolation and resource availability fostered a unique community of artisans specializing in this craft. Even today, Thulhaadhoo remains the heart of Maldivian lacquer work, housing the few remaining workshops dedicated to this art.

The Intricate Craft: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a piece of Maldivian lacquer work is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, requiring exceptional skill and patience. The traditional technique involves several stages, each demanding precision and expertise.

1. Preparing the Wood:

The process begins with selecting suitable wood, usually local varieties like Ruk (local Ebony) or Hiyaa (local Ironwood). The wood needs to be carefully seasoned and dried to prevent cracking or warping. Once dry, the wood is shaped into the desired form, whether it’s a vase, a box, or another decorative item. This shaping is typically done using hand tools such as saws, chisels, and planes.

2. Applying the Base Coats:

After shaping, the wood is prepared for the lacquer. Traditionally, the base coat consists of a mixture of resin extracted from local trees and ground charcoal. This mixture is applied in multiple thin layers, each layer being allowed to dry completely before the next is applied. This may take days, weeks and months to complete if the artisan wants a perfect finish. The application is done by hand, ensuring a smooth and even surface. The charcoal provides a dark base color and helps to fill any imperfections in the wood.

3. Carving the Design:

Once the base coats are thoroughly dry, the design is carved onto the surface. This is a critical step, requiring a steady hand and a deep understanding of traditional Maldivian motifs. Artisans typically use small, sharp tools to carefully carve the intricate patterns and figures that characterize Maldivian lacquer work. Common motifs include geometric patterns, floral designs, and depictions of marine life. The depth and precision of the carving will greatly affect the final appearance of the piece.

4. Applying Layered Colors :

This is where the magic happens. The carved areas are filled with layers of colored lacquer. Traditionally, the colors were derived from natural pigments, such as plant extracts, minerals, and even insects. Red, yellow, and black are common colors, often used in combination to create striking contrasts. The application of the colored lacquer is done meticulously, layer by layer, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This process can take weeks, even months, depending on the complexity of the design and the number of colors used. Different colors are added in layers and the artisan uses locally made tools to get a perfect finish. In this step the artisan carefully places colors like a painter and the most skilled artisans makes it look like the original wood color.

5. Polishing and Finishing:

The final step involves polishing the lacquered surface to a high sheen. This is done using various abrasive materials, such as fine sand or specially prepared leaves. The polishing process reveals the depth and vibrancy of the colors, bringing the design to life. Once polished, the item may be given a final coat of clear lacquer for protection and added shine. The end result is a durable, visually stunning piece of art that reflects the skill and dedication of the artisan.

The Challenges Facing Liyelaa Jehun

Despite its rich history and cultural significance, Maldivian lacquer work is facing numerous challenges that threaten its survival. The number of artisans practicing the craft has dwindled drastically in recent years, and without concerted efforts to preserve it, this unique art form could disappear altogether.

1. Scarcity of Raw Materials:

Traditionally, artisans relied on locally sourced materials for their lacquer work. However, deforestation and environmental changes have led to a scarcity of certain types of wood and natural pigments. Importing these materials can be costly and time-consuming, making it difficult for artisans to maintain their craft. The unsustainable harvesting in the past has limited the supply of the raw materials.

2. Lack of Skilled Artisans:

Perhaps the biggest challenge is the lack of skilled artisans. The art of lacquer work is traditionally passed down through generations, but with changing lifestyles and economic opportunities, younger generations are less interested in learning the craft. The time-consuming and laborious nature of the work, combined with relatively low financial returns, makes it less appealing to young people.

3. Limited Market and Economic Viability:

The market for Maldivian lacquer work is limited, both locally and internationally. While there is some demand from tourists and collectors, it is not enough to sustain the craft. The high cost of production, combined with competition from cheaper, mass-produced souvenirs, makes it difficult for artisans to earn a decent living. Most tourists are not aware of the long hours that goes into making one lacquer goods piece and the limited availability of skilled artisans limits production capacity.

4. Impact of Modernization:

The Maldives has undergone rapid modernization in recent decades, with significant changes in lifestyle and culture. Traditional crafts like lacquer work are often seen as outdated or irrelevant in this modern context. The availability of modern materials and technologies has also led to a decline in the use of traditional techniques.

Preserving Liyelaa Jehun: What Can Be Done?

Fortunately, there are several initiatives to try and preserve the art of Maldivian lacquer work. However, more support is needed to ensure the long-term survival of this unique cultural heritage.

1. Supporting Artisans and Promoting Training:

One of the most effective ways to preserve Liyelaa Jehun is to support the remaining artisans and promote training programs for younger generations. Increasing the income of the artisans is very crucial and the current younger generation are more enticed by the opportunities in the Maldives tourism sector. This could involve providing financial assistance, establishing workshops and training centers, and creating marketing opportunities for their products.

For example, the Maldivian government, in collaboration with NGOs and international organizations, could establish a national lacquer work center in Thulhaadhoo, offering training courses, workshops, and marketing support for artisans. This center could also serve as a hub for research and documentation of traditional techniques. Providing scholarships and apprenticeships to young people interested in learning the craft could also help to ensure its transmission to future generations. It would also be useful to create a sustainable source of income for the industry.

2. Promoting Awareness and Appreciation:

Raising awareness of Maldivian lacquer work, both locally and internationally, is crucial for increasing demand and appreciation for the craft. This could involve organizing exhibitions, participating in international trade fairs, and promoting lacquer work through tourism initiatives. Museums and cultural centers could also play a role in showcasing the history and techniques of Liyelaa Jehun.

For example, the National Museum of the Maldives could create a permanent exhibition dedicated to lacquer work, showcasing the history, techniques, and cultural significance of the craft. Tourism companies could also incorporate visits to lacquer work workshops in their itineraries, providing tourists with an opportunity to see the artisans at work and purchase their products. Many tourists are also unaware that a lot of the “Maldivian souvenirs,” are actually just imported goods.

3. Sustainable Sourcing of Raw Materials:

Ensuring a sustainable supply of raw materials is essential for the long-term viability of lacquer work. This could involve promoting sustainable forestry practices, cultivating local pigment plants, and exploring alternative materials. Research into traditional techniques and materials could also help to identify sustainable solutions.

The best solution would be for the government to invest in research on the locally sourced materials and make it available to artisans. The current market pricing of lacquer work is not profitable enough to ensure an artisan can provide for their family, so artisans can’t take the additional risks of purchasing locally sourced raw-materials. The government can encourage villagers to reintroduce trees of Ruk or Hiyaa on the islands to support local artisans.

4. Preserving Traditional Knowledge:

Documenting and preserving traditional knowledge is vital for ensuring that the art of lacquer work is not lost. This could involve recording interviews with master artisans, creating detailed documentation of techniques and designs, and establishing online resources for researchers and practitioners. This information should be accessible to the public and to the younger generation. Older artisans are also very shy of sharing their know-hows and techniques and they often keep their techniques as an family secret, not even sharing it with the other villagers of Thulhaadhoo.

Visiting Thulhaadhoo: Experiencing Liyelaa Jehun Firsthand

If you’re interested in experiencing Maldivian lacquer work firsthand, a visit to Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll is a must. This island is the heart of the craft, home to the few remaining workshops and master artisans. You can witness the artisans at work, learn about the techniques involved, and purchase authentic, handcrafted pieces.

Getting There:

Thulhaadhoo is accessible by domestic flight from Velana International Airport in Malé to Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll, followed by a speedboat transfer to the island. The flight takes approximately 30 minutes, and the speedboat transfer takes around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local ferry from Malé, but this is a much longer journey, taking several hours.

Where to Stay:

Thulhaadhoo offers a range of guesthouses and small hotels to fit different budgets. These accommodations are typically simple but comfortable, offering a glimpse into local island life. It is important to note that there are very few resorts in the islands and tourists accommodation is mainly based on guest houses.

What to See and Do:

During your visit to Thulhaadhoo, be sure to:
Visit the local lacquer work workshops and observe the artisans at work.
Purchase authentic, handcrafted pieces directly from the artisans, ensuring that your money goes directly to supporting their craft.
Learn about the history and techniques of lacquer work at the Thulhaadhoo Cultural Center.
Explore the island’s beautiful beaches and experience the local culture. Tourists can explore the island leisurely by foot, as you can walk from one end to the other in around 30 mins.
Try local Maldivian cuisine at the island’s restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local favorites, like mas huni or gulha.

Cost Considerations:

The cost of a trip to Thulhaadhoo will depend on your choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities. Domestic flights can range from $100 to $200 per person, while speedboat transfers typically cost around $30 to $50 per person. Guesthouse accommodation starts at around $50 per night. Lacquer work pieces can range in price from a few dollars for small items to several hundred dollars for larger, more elaborate pieces.

Practical Examples:

One compelling example of preservation efforts is the work of a local NGO, “Maldives Heritage Trust,” which organizes workshops and exhibitions to promote traditional crafts, including lacquer work. The Trust has also partnered with artisans in Thulhaadhoo to help them market their products online and access a wider customer base. The Maldives Heritage Trust also conducts research for tourism or educational purposes, such as the “Maahefun,” which is an annual feast held in the Maldives on the occasion of the third day of Ramadan, or the history of the Sultanate in the Maldives.

Another example is the initiative of a small guesthouse owner in Thulhaadhoo who offers lacquer work classes to tourists. This provides visitors with a hands-on experience and helps to generate income for local artisans. By participating in these classes, tourists gain a deeper appreciation for the craft and contribute to its preservation.

FAQ Section:

What is Liyelaa Jehun?

Liyelaa Jehun is the Maldivian term for lacquer work, a traditional art form involving the application of colored lacquer to carved wooden objects, creating intricate and decorative pieces.

Where can I see lacquer work being made?

The best place to witness lacquer work firsthand is in Thulhaadhoo, Baa Atoll, where you can visit local workshops and observe artisans at work.

How can I support the preservation of Liyelaa Jehun?

You can support the preservation of lacquer work by purchasing authentic pieces directly from artisans in Thulhaadhoo, promoting awareness of the craft, and supporting organizations that are dedicated to its preservation.

What are the main challenges facing Liyelaa Jehun?

The main challenges include scarcity of raw materials, lack of skilled artisans, limited market demand, and the impact of modernization.

How long does it take to create a piece of lacquer work?

The time it takes to create a piece of lacquer work varies depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the item, but it can take weeks or even months due to the multiple layers and intricate carving involved. The preparation of the base layer can take even months due to the number of base layers the artisan has to implement.

References List:

1. National Centre for Cultural Heritage. (n.d.). Traditional Crafts of Maldives.
2. Ministry of Tourism, Maldives. (n.d.). Cultural Tourism in the Maldives.
3. Maldives Heritage Trust. (n.d.). Preserving Maldivian Heritage.
4. World Bank. (2020). Maldives: Tourism Sector Assessment.

Maldivian lacquer work is more than just a craft; it’s a living testament to the islands’ rich cultural heritage. The tradition is facing an existential challenge. If you have the opportunity, supporting these artisans and promoting their work is preserving a piece of Maldivian history. Whether you’re a tourist, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates art and culture, your support matters. Spread the word, visit Thulhaadhoo, and invest in the future of Liyelaa Jehun. Let’s work together to ensure that this exquisite art form continues to thrive for generations to come.