Making of Etikoppaka Wood Lacquerware

Natural dye/colour preparation

There is a specific procedure for preparing different dyes. The raw material derived from different parts of various trees or plants are powdered and boiled to form a thick solution till it starts producing lather. The concentrates are then filtered. The colours and shades depend on various factors - such as the temperature at which it is boiled, duration of boiling, quantities of water and raw material boiled. For instance, to prepare a concentrate of red or orange, one kg seeds of Bixa orellana are mixed with two and half (2 1/2) litre of water and boiled on a small domestic oven for twenty to thirty minutes. The concentrate is cooled and filtered to mix with lacquer. However, some colours have a complex and systematic process of preparing the concentrate.

Lacquerware

Lacquer craft is the application of lacquer on wood in pleasing shades and colours to create a distinctive appeal. The beauty of this craft lies in painting the smooth wooden shapes. Etikoppaka in Andhra Pradesh is the hometown of lacquer ware. It is said that this craft originated in the neighboring Nakkapalli village before it spread to Etikoppaka, its present home. The proximity to the forest area with plenty of yield of Ankudu Karra, a light and non timber species of wood, promoted the concentration of this art in Etikoppaka.

Lacquering is done on a lathe, by hand or using machine. For turning slender and delicate items, the hand-lathe is preferred. Lac is applied in a dry state. The process involves the pressing of lac stick against the rotating woodenware. As the latter keeps revolving the heat from the friction softens the lac enabling the colour to stick. Designs are painted with a brush on figures, objects and toys. As these articles are made by using lathes, they are called "Turned Toys".

Etikoppaka lac bangles are one of the most famous lacquerware. In ancient times these bangles were studded with gold and precious stones making them a status symbol. Lacquered containers are also available in unique shapes, sizes and shades.