|
Phuket has a great variety of Thai handicrafts, some of which come
from other parts of Thailand and some which are regional specialities.
Intricate filigree leather pictures, items made from coconuts and
sea shells, bronze and lacquerware and ceramics are just some of
the items produced. Some have been created by craftsmen whose skills
have been handed down for generations while others are produced
in factories using the latest in advanced technology and quality
control. You really need to see for yourself...
Ceramics
The makers of Thailand's distinctive Celadon ceramics use a centuries-old
technique to create beautiful works in jade green, brown or cobalt
blue. Bowls, tiles, teapots, vases and other items can be found
in boutiques attached to major hotels and department stores. A local
company, Ceramics
of Phuket, produces original ceramics made from Phuket clay
in absolutely stunning designs. Many of their ceramics are made
to order and you'll find their products on the tables and in the
rooms of Phuket's top resorts and restaurants. Their showroom is
5 minutes outside of Phuket City on the road to Kathu (Vichitsongkram
Rd).
Benjarong is another ceramic style unique to Thailand, usually
formed into a round pot with a lid with rich colours and intricate
patterns. More modern styles of this craft, which was once exclusively
for the use of the Royal family, are found on plates, cups or ornamental
pieces. Most souvenir and houseware shops have Benjarong items for
sale.
For large earthenware jars, pottery and other ceramics including
the blue and white Chinese styles, check out some of the garden
shops or department stores around the island.
Bronzeware
Bronze artwork in Thailand dates back to ancient times. Hindu deities,
Thai dancers, elephants, bowls, cutlery and more are beautifully
rendered using a blend of traditional and modern techniques. Many
lovely items from spoons to large sculptures can be found at a bargain
in Phuket's boutiques and department stores.
Pewterware
Pewterware, an alloy of tin with a touch of lead, adds a classy
decorative touch to any home. The silvery sheen of pewter is both
subtle and longlasting, requiring a minimum of care. Anything from
sturdy cutlery to large bowls or mugs with intricate engraved details
are sold at most souvenir and gift shops.
Lacquerware
A specialty of northern Thailand, neighbouring Burma, and now Vietnam,
a wide range of contemporary and antique lacquerware can be bought
in shops on Phuket Island. You can find the distinctive gold and
black household objects such as trinket boxes, trays and chopsticks
originate from Chiang Mai, Thailand (Try Andaman Trade Centre on
Srisoontorn Rd, Thalang, Tel: 076 272 304).
Some shops also carry the antique matte red cylinder picnic boxes
and covers inlaid with black and/or green detail that are characteristic
of Burma's lacquerware industry. More recently, the creatively coloured
and decorated trays, bowls and homeware originating from Vietnam
have also become available in Phuket - all of these items make an
ideal, lightweight collector's item or gift.
Nielloware
One of Thailand's more unique handicrafts, nielloware is a traditional
craft of the southern province of Nakorn Si Thammarat and therefore
a good buy in nearby Phuket. Nielloware is the art of applying etched
designs made from an alloy of lead, silver, copper and sulfur, onto
silver or gold receptacles. Items ranging from coffee and tea sets
to fittings for handbags and buttons are available in shops around
the island. |
