Thulhaadhoo

Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll is the centre of laajehun, the Maldivian lacquer work: boxes and vases are turned from local hardwood on a hand-powered lathe, coated in layers of coloured resin lacquer, and then the top layers are scraped away with a fine tool to reveal patterns in the colours beneath. The craft was traditionally reserved for objects presented to the sultan. A handful of families still work it on the island.

History

The island's lacquer work once supplied the noble families of the country with lacquered pieces, and today most of it is sold to visitors as souvenirs (Wikipedia, Thulhaadhoo).

Highlights

• The lacquer work - layers of coloured resin scraped back to reveal patterns.
• The hand lathe - the turning done on traditional equipment.
• The workshops - the families still practising the craft on the island.
• The court history - the craft's origins in objects made for the sultan.

When to go

November to April is the dry season with easier travel. Workshops work on their own schedule rather than visiting hours. Ferries run on limited days.

What to expect

Workshop visits are informal and depend on someone being at work. The number of practitioners has fallen sharply. Local island rules on dress and alcohol apply.

Nearby

Fulhadhoo is south, and Dharavandhoo is northeast.

Key facts