Handicrafts Kerala

Handicrafts: The Enchanting Treasures Of The Enchanting Kerala

Kerala is unique in its beautiful handicrafts. The art of its handicrafts intertwines with its rich culture. Perfect in style, beauty and designs, the handicrafts of Kerala are a big hit with tourists. The skilled craftsmen of Kerala have long perfected the art of creating amazing handicrafts from very simple raw materials. A great deal of emphasis is laid on colours and designs. They are famous not only in India but in abroad as well.

The wonderful state Kerala offers an amazing variety of  products when it comes to handicrafts. Notable ones are carvings in metal and wood( rosewood and sandalwood), metal jewellery, granite statues, figures and paintings of elephants, coconut shell, coir products, colourful wall hangings, bags and snake boat model. One of the most admirable handicraft is the wooden face of a Kathakali dancer.

Coir and Cane Products

The markets of Kerala are spilled with coir and cane products. Coir mattresses, painting decorated mats and floor furnishings are quite famous. Several other coir and cane products are also available. Kollam and Calicut are the known spots for buying coir products.

Metal ware

The metal art of Kerala has a charm of its own. Bell metal(an alloy of brass, tin and copper) is predominantly used for making beautiful figures of heavenly deities. Figure depicting the 'tandava dance' is very popular. Best places to buy such metal figures are Angadipuram, Payannur and Trivandrum. Another interesting bell metal product is the Aranmula metal mirror  which looks very beautiful.

Ivory Products

Practised since ages, Ivory work is an important part of the culture of Kerala. Ivory carving can be best seen in the form of mythological figures. Wood craft of Kerala also derives its inspiration from the Hindu mythology. The wonderful rosewood carving can be best seen on the temples. Paper weights, lamps, book ends and other decorative items are also carved out of wood. Sandalwood products are very famous here— Ashtrays, toys, decorated boxes, candle stands, statues of elephants, rhinoceros and Kathakali dance postures are a few to name.

Lacquer Ware

The craftsmen of Kerala make fascinating lacquer products by perfectly combining the metal and wood craft. A wide variety of lacquer products are churned out in Kerala,especially in Ernakulam district.

Textiles

Silk saris are a must buy in Kerala. The plain white Karaikudi saris with a gold band on the borders and the pallu look very elegant and beautiful. And the Balaramapuram sari with pure zari border is simply irresistible for women who are fond of saris.