LAC - Rainbow and Sunshine

Lac is a resinous substance deposited on the twigs of various trees in southern Asia, by the female Lac Insect. It is used in the manufacture of Varnishes, Sealing wax etc. In several parts of India, this is used in the making of various kinds of decorative and utility Items.

Indian Craftsmen smoothen the article, turn it on the wheel or lathe, and smear the lac all over the article. Several layers of different colored lac are applied in this way. Followed by polish and shining with a oil rag. The layers of lac are then scraped to highlight the required color.

Zig-zag dana work, fire, cloud, etching, and painted decorative work are different varieties of lacquering. The colors used are gold, silver, red, blue, yellow, orange and black. The lacquerware itself has designs using the above colour combinations as dots, squares, and other geometric or floral motifs.

It's a veritable kaleidoscope of brightly enhanced colours, giving each handcrafted item a celebratory, festive look.