The beauty of Maldivian art and craft
The people of Maldives are blessed with an artistic mind. This shows in the rich culture and heritage of the country.
A glimpse of Maldivian art and craft can be seen on the tombstones in the country. The intricate carving that is done on the tombstones definitely make your head turn. From the tombstones to the hand made mats, everything in the country gives an idea about the art and craft bend and skills of the people of the country.
The handicrafts of the country, the wood carvings, sculptures and various other forms of art and craft have a different kind of beauty added to them. These art and craft skills are passed from one generation to the other in the country.
Art Calligraphy is one of the most popular and established forms of Maldivian art. Beautiful work of calligraphy can be seen on the mosques of the country. Maldivian people take pride in possessing these exclusive skills. A good blend of traditional and modern calligraphy can be seen in the Islamic centers of the country. The skills of making calligraphy are age old and have been passed one from one generation to the other. Although, the passion for this art form has reduced with time but it still holds that uniqueness.
If you talk about Maldivian handicrafts, wooden lacquer ware is the first name that comes to mind. These products are made in Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. These wooden lacquer ware are known as Liye Laajehun in the local language. These are made by hollowing and carving wooden pieces to make beautiful wooden boxes and artifacts. These objects are usually lacquered in black, yellow and red resins. They bear colorful floral motifs and patterns.
Although boat building is an important part of the occupation of people of Maldives, but this is another piece of handicraft popular in the country. These boats, popularly known as ‘dhonis’, are traditionally made up of coconut wood. Now a days imported hard wood is used to make ‘dhonis’. Boat making is considered an art because it requires expertise otherwise it cannot bear the pressure of waves in the ocean.
Mat making is also an important part of Maldivian handicraft. The women of the country are mostly involved in the process of mat making. The beautiful reed mats are coomonly made in Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Maldivian mats are popular all around the world. Mats of different sizes and shapes can be purchased from the streets of Maldives. The reed is dried in sun before making the mats and then it is dyed in beautiful colors. After that the colored reeds are woven by a handloom weaver. Mats are an attraction for the tourists coming to the place. They are not only a piece of decoration to the Maldivian people but also a great source of earning. These hand woven mats are a must-buy if you visit the country.
In nutshell, it can be said that handicraft of the country is an important part of Maldivian culture.
Maldives Art & Crafts