Myanmar, the regions and crafts within!
Did you know that one of the world’s major lacquerware industries is located in Myanmar?
About a thousand years have passed since lacquerware has been produced in Myanmar. The labor-intensive procedure entails coating a wooden basis with several coats of lacquer, which are then polished to produce a gleaming, glossy surface. A stunning and long-lasting work of art that can be used for everything from food storage to adornment is the end product.
However, lacquerware is only one of many fascinating crafts to be found in Myanmar. Each region of the country is home to skilled artisans who have learned and passed on their skills over the centuries. The crafts are heavily influenced by the country’s major religion, Buddhism, as well as some influence from neighboring India.
Lacquerware Bowl Set
Here are some other hidden gems that are worth exploring:
Weaving
Myanmar has a long weaving history, with various techniques and materials used nationwide. The Chin people use natural fibers to create intricate patterns and designs in one of the unique forms of weaving. The end result is a lovely piece of fabric that can be used for clothing, bags, and other purposes.
Traditional Burmese weaving
Silversmithing
Myanmar’s Shan State is known for its skilled silversmiths, who use traditional techniques to create intricate jewelry and other decorative items. From delicate filigree work to bold statement pieces, Myanmar’s silverwork is truly breathtaking.
Silversmithing handmade jar
Papermaking
Papermaking may not be the first craft that comes to mind when you think of Myanmar, but it is nonetheless fascinating. In Shwebo, artisans make handmade paper from mulberry tree bark. The process takes time and is labor-intensive, but the result is a beautiful and unique product that can be used for writing, drawing, or other creative endeavors.
paper making in Burma
Stucco art
Burmese stucco art is a highly skilled handicraft in which intricate designs are created using plaster and cement.
The art form is most well-known in the Bagan region of central Myanmar, where over 2,000 ancient temples and pagodas are stucco-decorated. Many of these temples date from the 11th and 12th centuries, and their stucco work is regarded as some of the finest examples of traditional Burmese art.
Bagan artisans continue to practise this traditional craft, preserving Myanmar’s cultural heritage for future generations.
Nestled between hills and valleys, the people of Myanmar have honed their craft and gained international recognition as the home of the ten flowers, or Pan se myo. To get a true sense of the country’s rich and diverse crafts scene, visit local markets, workshops, and studios where artisans create and sell their wares. Tuzmo will soon have an easy way to get crafts. Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply appreciate the beauty of handcrafted items, Myanmar’s crafts will leave an indelible impression.
