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Kerala

Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Craft: A glimpse into Kerala's artistry

From palm fronds to store fronts

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Cultural legacy

For most, coconuts are ordinary drupes, a refreshing drink with yummy flesh at most. But the people of Kerala recognise the potentil of a simple coconut, utilising every part of the fruit for food, shelter and fuel; acknowledging it as a wonderful resource. For the craftsmen of this beautiful state, a coconut is the site to display their cornucopia of creativity. In the districts of Kollam, Ernakulum, Kottayam, Wayanad, Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram (now Trivandrum), the coconut shell is used by the skilled Keralite craftsmen to make Brass Broidered Coconut Shells.

A craft rooted in tradition

Coconut have been a gift to the people of Kerala since forever, but the origins of the Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Crafts are obscure. This craft is amazing in how artisans breathe life into discarded coconut shells, transforming them from humble husks into treasures adorned with brass.

The process is a mesmerizing dance between strength and finesse. The naturally hard coconut shell is meticulously carved, its surface whispering tales of sun-drenched beaches and swaying palms. Then comes the brass embroidery, a testament to the artisan's skill. Using the intricate lost wax process, they etch delicate patterns onto the shell, a marriage of toughness and elegance. The result? A universe of products such as hookahs, bowls, cups, small boxes, flower vases, snuff boxes, sugar basins, nut bowls, spoons, key chains, agarbathi (incense sticks) stands, clocks, buttons, beads, necklace, lockets, hair clips, soap box and other decorative pieces that shine with a story. The natural hardness and micro-porosity of the coconut shell make it the perfect canvas, ensuring these treasures endure for generations!

A visual feast for the senses

A number of tools are utilised for the making of Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Crafts. The process begins with the selection of the perfect shell that is chosen based on size. The outer surface of the shell is rubbed with a steel tool, while the inner part is smoothened with a chisel. After smoothening, a base and handle, crafted from separate shells, are attached to the main cup using screws. For finishing touches, boot polish is applied first, followed by a final coat of French polish for a high-gloss finish.

Once the shell is prepared, it is time form bell-metal adornments. A mixture of beeswax and charcoal is used to create a detailed design on a lead square. This design is pressed onto a wooden model and covered in a clay and chalk mixture (sometimes with paddy husk). The wax is then melted out, leaving a hollow cavity. Molten copper and zinc are poured into the cavity so formed, filling the space left by the wax. Once cooled, the metal takes shape of the ornate wax model initially sculpted. The metal adornment is smoothened, and the coconut shell is secured inside a frame with gum. A paste made from boiled sealing wax is rubbed onto the shell for a final shine.


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Kerala

A sustainable and eco-friendly craft

Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Crafts stand out as a noteworthy eco-friendly art form in today's society, where sustainability is of great concern. Coconut shells are renewable resources in Kerala and make an excellent platform for these artistic creations crafted by skilled artisans using only natural materials sourced locally; not only does this reduce waste, but it also strengthens the local coconut industry.

Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Crafts make for attractive souvenirs that showcase both art and environmental responsibility. They blend heritage, artistry and the natural world into beautiful creations. In 2008, the crafts were granted a Geographical Indications (GI) tag by the Government of India. While experiencing the stirring beauty of Kerala, it’s a great idea to also take home something to remind you of the natural wonders of these lands – take home a piece of Brass Broidered Coconut Shell Crafts!