Lacquers

Lacquers

Lacquer objects have been used in Burma for centuries, fragments of lacquer objects dating back to the 12th century have been found in Bagan.

There are three main categories of lacquerware, firstly, those which were intended to bring offerings to monasteries, models called Hsun Ok, in the shape of pagodas and the Hsun It, in the shape of compartmentalised “balls”.

The second were the betel boxes, mainly cylindrical in shape, intended to contain the ingredients used in the manufacture of betel chews, a euphoric substance widely used in Burma.

Finally, the lacquers for domestic use.

You will find here some models, do not hesitate to contact me for any questions, prices, desired models or to receive simple information.

Steel and brass gong, Java, mid 20th century

Cylindrical box, Kun It

Cylindrical betel box called Kun It, a traditional model that has been popular in Burma for centuries and which was used to contain all the ingredients for making betel chews. The designs are made freehand with a rudimentary tool, a very sharp stylus, called tont yun, which gave its name to the technique used. First half of the 20th century, Bagan, 22 cms high.

Gong used in 20th century Buddhist ceremonies

Offering box, Hsun it

Hsun it, an offering box with compartments made of woven and lacquered bamboo, which was used by the faithful to bring food to the monasteries.  Bagan region, Burma, first half of the 20th century. 38 cms high and 39 cms in diameter.

Gong used in Buddhist ceremonies

Offering box, Hsun ok

“Hsun ok” made of carved and lacquered teak, which was used to bring offerings to monasteries during Buddhist ceremonies. The point is made of turned and carved wood. Circa 50 cms high, Burma, Bagan region.

Steel and brass gong, Java, mid 20th century

Hsun ok

“Hsun ok” made of woven and lacquered bamboo which was used to bring offerings to monasteries during Buddhist ceremonies. The point is made of turned and carved wood. 65 cms high and 37 cms in diameter. Its shape is characteristic of the Shan state, Burma, first half of the 20th century.

Gong used in 20th century Buddhist ceremonies

Kalat

“Kalat” made of carved and lacquered teak, which was used to bring offerings to monasteries during Buddhist ceremonies. These objects had a double function, they also served as trays for meals, the guests sat around them and shared the food that was placed on them. Burma, Bagan, first half of the 20th century. 24 cms high and 44 cms in diameter.

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