My Tryst with Burmese decor

While we are on the topic of Asian decor, I thought it would be in context to introduce my fascination with Burmese style of design. A late lunch at my favorite Burmese restaurant - A Taste of Burma (ATOB), gave me the opportunity to chat up leisurely with the lovely lady who runs the show at ATOB - Jona Davis. My family and I have been frequenting this restaurant for over 5 years now and it's an epicurean's delight. Authentic food and consistent taste served with an extra dose of hospitality is what leaves us begging for more..... 

On my recent visit to this place, I spotted some new additions to their decor. Jona had lugged back some distinctive Burmese decor from her recent travel to Burma. She was more than glad when I wanted to photograph it for my blog.

Burmese Lacquer ware tea pot

With my love for tea, it was no surprise that this lacquer ware tea pot appealed to my chai senses and it was the first one to be on the hot seat:) An antique, acquired by Jona's family and now hers is a prized possession. It's proudly displayed in the restaurant where Jona spends long hours and can enjoy it's beauty often.

The process of producing lacquer ware is an interplay of patience and collaboration. With most pieces taking upto a couple of months and the expertise of various artisans put to work at every step of the way, these pieces are more than a labor of love. Lac is the sap of an indigenous tree that is fashioned into these beautiful handicrafts by applying layer after layer to the core structure made of woven bamboo. The final stage is the one that puts the finishing touches on the object with the artisans engraving lines into the surface of the lacquer base and then, colored lacquer is applied to the lines, creating detailed embellishments such as scenery from every day life, figures, patterns, etc. 

Burmese lacquer ceremonial vessel (Hsun-ok)

The lacquer ware may be gilded and inlaid with glass creating an almost brass like effect as seen in this iconic Burmese lacquer pagoda shaped ceremonial vessel (Hsun-ok). It's used for presenting gifts of food as offerings to the Buddhist monasteries. It is a fascinating piece of handiwork and the intricate detailing is a work of art fit for a museum.

With my fascination for the Buddha and Asian decor, I was drooling over this set of wooden Buddhist monks. The aesthetics of Burmese design appeals to me as it's heavily influenced by it's neighboring countries like China and India to name a few and has it's deep rooted spiritual and religious references when it comes to art and architecture.

Love the patina on these Wooden Burmese monks

I wanted you'll to see how these beautiful Burmese decor elements have been incorporated into these Asian inspired living spaces. 

I hope you'll enjoyed the tryst with Burmese decor as much as I did. Have  a wonderful day and circle back with me for inspirational decor and fresh color palettes for the upcoming Ganesha Chathurthi celebration !!!

Images : (1,2,3 - Mine; 4,5 -Via; 6 -Via)