O’thentique Eggshell Laquer Bamboo Bowl

This wonderful, contemporary take on traditional Vietnamese laquerware is made from spun bamboo naturally laquered and decorated with real recycled egg shells.

Dimensions: 40 x 20cm

O’thentique are a team of designers with one goal. Unique fusion of quality and design – The designer is Danish; his choice of medium is the traditional Vietnamese lacquer ware.

Renewable resources – O’thentique use only renewable resources and recycled materials such as eggshells and bamboo.
Bamboo is very a fast growing material that quickly replenishes itself. Bamboo grows twice as fast as the average tree and releases 30% more oxygen into the atmosphere.

Cultural sustainability – Lacquer ware is a part of Vietnam’s culture, the practice has not changed for thousands of years. O’thentique have two workshops in Vietnam which are part of a co-operative group who are paid fairly and equally. O’thentique production is small where artisans are looked after and paid well.

Traditional techniques – The bamboo is split into long strips, which is then spun by hand to make bowls, platters and vases. This then undertakes the lacquer process or is painted. The leaves are then used to weave baskets. Lacquer ware practiced in Vietnam is a long and complex process that has not changed for over a thousand years. A single piece can take up to 115 days; a simple bowl will take a minimum of 50 days to finish.
The lacquer is tapped from the Rhus Succedanea tree.

Method – The wooden design is first sealed and gauze is applied to ensure there is no cracking. The natural lacquer is mixed with different materials including finely ground saw dust, soil and mountain rock. This is then polished underwater using a sharpening stone. This is repeated 5-6 times.
The pattern of eggshells or mother of pearl is then applied by hand. This makes every piece of lacquer unique.
The design has another 5 layers of polished lacquer applied.

Finishes – Different types of recycled eggshells to decorate each design. Eggshell is a great natural product giving the design a cracked look. Because of it’s naturally crème to brown colour, the designs work very well in homes complemented by wood and leather furniture. The eggshell is painstakingly applied piece by piece by hand.
Mother of Pearl is also used from recycled mother of pearl from sea shells to decorate many pieces. This has to be cut into shape and then it is hand applied to the design.

>>> Available from BigGreenSmile