Lacquer Works
Records show that the Chinese were the first to manufacture, and the first to trade lacquer, and in doing so, helped establish one of the most important cultural traditions of artistry in the Maldives. Lacquer work, or laajehun in local tongue, may have been brought to the Maldives in a period of time when trade between China, and the rest of South Asia flourished. The 17th century saw lacquer worked objects play a central role in the Maldivian economy, as an article of export. Before lacquer became considered as something with aesthetic value, it was really its protective properties against atmospheric change that made it so popular among Maldivian folk.
Small wooden crafted containers and vases, and also buildings meant to stand the test of time were decorated with lacquer painted intricate floral designs, in bold colours of red, blue, green and gold. However, recent times have brought into question the survival of this rich cultural heritage, as this skill is preserved only in the island of Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll.