Lava

This original vase is set on fire with bright hues of orange adorning its volcanic shape. Daeng Thanunchai handcrafts this piece from coiled bamboo, transforming the vase into a fascinating work of art with ancient lacquer techniques. A magnificent piece, this vase is the ideal housewarming gift. Not watertight.

To complete this piece, coiled bamboo basketry is firstly carved on a lathe into the desired shape. A mixture of lacquer - obtained from trees - and ashes of burnt rice paddy husks is then applied to the object. Upon exposure to air the mixture dries to form a watertight seal that is polished before another coat is applied. This process is repeated until a rigid base is formed, and a final polishing is executed with sandpaper. Then several coats of pure lacquer are painted on the object, with drying periods in between each coat.

The work is partially polished with sandpaper according to a predetermined pattern - generally concentric - and a few coats of different lacquer colors are applied to the surface and the object is left to dry for a few days. The process remains identical for each ensuing color, alternating lacquering and polishing sessions until the design is achieved. The final coat is washed with water and polished with powdered fired clay, offering an irresistible sheen.