Maldivian Craftmanship: Crafting With Coconut Shells
Author(s)
Title
Maldivian Craftmanship: Crafting With Coconut Shells
Alternative Title
Dhivehi Masakkaiytherikan: Naashi Thekethi Hedhun (ދިވެހި މަސައްކަތްތެރިކަން : ނާށިން ތަކެތިހެދުން)
Publication Type
Language
div
Number of Pages
7
Location
Maldives
Keywords
Carpentry
Masory
Maldives
Construction
Craftmanship
Crafting coconut shells
Relevance to ICH Safeguarding
Description
Naashin Thekethi Hedhun is the craft of using coconut shells to make different things. The Naashi or the shell of the coconut that is utilized in this craft is forms when coconut matures to the points its flesh is the thickest inside. This is when the coconut’s shell is at its hardest and is optimal for crafting.
Coconut shell crafting has existed in the Maldives for centuries. It was one of the most readily available materials, which is also sturdy.
Therefore, in the early days, the Maldivians mostly used it for crafting day to day tools such as:
- Ladles: The shape and sizes of the coconut shells were perfect for creating ladles required for different purposes.
- Measuring cups: The Maldivians had their own system of measuring. The tools made from coconut shell were used to measure the smaller units of liquids.
- Toddy container (or Badhi in Dhivehi): Used during coconut toddy tapping. Coconut toddy is a non-alcoholic fermented drink with refreshing properties.
- Instrument of traditional medicine
The coconut shell craft was used throughout the Maldives. It was not restricted to social classes. Instead, it was found in the poorest man's hut, all the way to the royal palace of the Maldives. However, it was in the 1960s that the coconut shell started to be used for more decorative purposes.
The following are some items that were crafted from it:
- Penholders
- Parts of lanterns
- Jewelry
- Globes
The coconut shell crafting technique:
- Harvesting: Coconut shells are sourced from local coconut palms, which are abundant in the Maldives. Once coconuts are harvested for their flesh and water, the hard shells are collected for crafting.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The shells are thoroughly cleaned to remove any residual coconut flesh and fibers. They are then dried, making them easier to work with. These are then shaped into a tool or item of preference though assembly with other materials or through cutting.
For decorative items following steps are added:
- Carving: Artisans often use traditional hand tools to carve intricate designs. Common motifs include local flora, fauna, and geometric patterns. Some artisans have unique styles that reflect personal or regional influences.
- Finishing Touches: After carving, shells are sanded for smoothness. Polishing with natural oils (like coconut oil) enhances their appearance and durability. Some craftsmen also apply natural dyes or paints to add color.
While coconut shell crafting is a cherished tradition, artisans face challenges such as the competition from mass-produced items and the need for sustainable practices. However, there is a growing interest in handmade crafts among locals and tourists, which encourages innovation and creativity within the craft.
Coconut shell crafting has existed in the Maldives for centuries. It was one of the most readily available materials, which is also sturdy.
Therefore, in the early days, the Maldivians mostly used it for crafting day to day tools such as:
- Ladles: The shape and sizes of the coconut shells were perfect for creating ladles required for different purposes.
- Measuring cups: The Maldivians had their own system of measuring. The tools made from coconut shell were used to measure the smaller units of liquids.
- Toddy container (or Badhi in Dhivehi): Used during coconut toddy tapping. Coconut toddy is a non-alcoholic fermented drink with refreshing properties.
- Instrument of traditional medicine
The coconut shell craft was used throughout the Maldives. It was not restricted to social classes. Instead, it was found in the poorest man's hut, all the way to the royal palace of the Maldives. However, it was in the 1960s that the coconut shell started to be used for more decorative purposes.
The following are some items that were crafted from it:
- Penholders
- Parts of lanterns
- Jewelry
- Globes
The coconut shell crafting technique:
- Harvesting: Coconut shells are sourced from local coconut palms, which are abundant in the Maldives. Once coconuts are harvested for their flesh and water, the hard shells are collected for crafting.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The shells are thoroughly cleaned to remove any residual coconut flesh and fibers. They are then dried, making them easier to work with. These are then shaped into a tool or item of preference though assembly with other materials or through cutting.
For decorative items following steps are added:
- Carving: Artisans often use traditional hand tools to carve intricate designs. Common motifs include local flora, fauna, and geometric patterns. Some artisans have unique styles that reflect personal or regional influences.
- Finishing Touches: After carving, shells are sanded for smoothness. Polishing with natural oils (like coconut oil) enhances their appearance and durability. Some craftsmen also apply natural dyes or paints to add color.
While coconut shell crafting is a cherished tradition, artisans face challenges such as the competition from mass-produced items and the need for sustainable practices. However, there is a growing interest in handmade crafts among locals and tourists, which encourages innovation and creativity within the craft.
Book/Journal Title
Publisher
National Center for Linguistic and Historical Research (Dhivehi Bahaa Thaareekha Khidhumaikuraa Gaumee Markaz)
Place of Publication
Male', Maldives
Date of Publication
Feb 1982
Issue
35
Pages
17-23
Academic Field
Arts and crafts
Cultural studies
Community/Ethnic Group
Maldivians craftsmen
Contributor
Active Contribution
Maldives, FY 2024