Eggshell mosaic centerpiece, "Galactic Glaciers"

Shattered eggshell motifs suggest glacial movements, rendered with a sort of stellar profundity. Outside, a faint greenish-brown tone mingles with the dark background, exemplifying the mystique of Thai design. Daeng Thanunchai presents this handcrafted masterpiece for the stately interior. For decorative purposes only.

To complete this piece, coiled bamboo basketry is carved into the desired shape on a lathe. A mixture of lacquer - obtained from the Gluta usitata tree - and ashes of burnt rice paddy husks is then applied to the object. Upon exposure to air the mixture dries to form a watertight seal that is polished before another coat is applied. This process is repeated until a rigid base is formed, and a final polishing is executed with sandpaper. Then several coats of pure lacquer are painted on the object, with drying periods in between each coat.

Next, chicken or duck eggshells are thoroughly cleaned and spread out on paper towels to dry. Once dry, they are cracked into small pieces and arranged in a mosaic pattern. Then lacquer is once again applied to the piece and the shells are placed onto this fresh coat. The work is then lacquered twice, and once the lacquer is dry it is sanded in water until the eggshells slowly appear. The piece is finally washed with water and polished with powdered fired clay, resulting in an alluring gleam.

Originally from China, lacquer ware has been one of the classic Burmese and Thai crafts for many centuries. Extremely sophisticated and intricately engraved objects were produced for use at monasteries and the Royal Court. But over the centuries, distinctive Thai designs and techniques evolved. It became a remarkable handicraft in the northern province of Chiang Mai, where it still remains prominent thanks to fervent preservers and innovators like Daeng Thanunchai.

Wash by hand with non-abrasive cleaners.