Lacquerware

Yi lacquerware is a traditional handicraft of the Nuosu people. Carved from local wood, the bowls, goblets, and wine jugs are painted in vivid designs with red, black and yellow paints and then lacquered for durability. The bright colors of everyday household implements lend cheerfulness to the dimly lit interiors of Nuosu homes. They are equally enchanting in western homes, becoming a conversation piece in many different settings.

Dove Wine Jug	Birds are very important in Nuosu culture—from the noble eagle soaring high above the mountain valleys to the lowly chicken scratching in the courtyard. This is a wine jug (wine is poured in through a small hole in the bird’s belly, then out again through its beak) that is probably modeled after the doves that live in the Liangshan mountains.	$60
Traditional Wine Set – Large	A classic wine set, found in homes throughout the Nuosu homeland. The wine jug holds just enough alcohol to fill the four goblets, so that a toast to hospitality and good health can be made. Like all Nuosu wine jugs, the liquid is poured in through a hole in the bottom, and out through the tube/spout on the side. Your friends will try and try to open the ‘lid’, but you’ll know the secret!	$54
Traditional Wine Set – Small	Another classic wine set, medium-sized. Note the delicate cross-hatching of red on the goblets. Functional, and beautiful.	$42
Pair of large goblets	Suitable for toasting. These are about 5 inches high, with black interiors.	$20
Pair of small goblets	Also suitable for toasting. These are about 3 inches high, with red interiors.	$15
Pair of Ladles	The Nuosu would use these to spoon soup out of the large communal bowls at the table.	$15
Spa Set	Nuosu art lends itself to modern, as well as traditional, items. This is an adorable spa set-complete with lacquered hairbrush! It also includes a loofah and a pumice stone.	$42