Scratchwork Lacquer Pot From Sindh - 19th Century Nandi Bulls the jaw of a crocodile

the jaw of a crocodile

and distinctly bohemian

while the broad

Both of these paintings

Such lacquerware pieces were commonly used in Rajasthan and Gujarat to store jewellery or bindi powder

Scratchwork Lacquer Pot From Sindh - 19th Century Nandi Bulls the jaw of a crocodileThis turned lacquer box is from Sindh in modern day Pakistan. Sindi and Indian lacquer boxes were used for storing jewelry or bindi (the red powder that Indian ladies apply to the forehead). Lacquering is done by the craftsman on a hand powered lathe. The wooden pot is spun and a lac stick is pressed against the pot. As the pot spins friction softens the lac which coats the surface of the wood. Quite intricate designs can be created by the craftsman