Maldivian Craftmanship: Crafting With Black Coral
| Author(s) | Shafeeq, Ahmed |
|---|---|
| Title | Maldivian Craftmanship: Crafting With Black Coral |
| Alternative Title | Endhereege' Masakaiy (އެދެރީގެ މަސައްކަތް) |
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| Language | div |
| Number of Pages | 6 |
| Location | Maldives |
| Keywords | Antipatharia Handicraft Maldives Culture Craftmanship Crafting with black coral |
| Relevance to ICH Safeguarding | heritage management intangible-tangible interface awareness raising education identification |
| Description |
Endhereege Masakaiyy is crafting using Endheri or black coral (Antipatharia). Antipatharia, commonly known as black coral, is a group of deep-sea corals named for their dark, chitin-like skeleton. Despite its name, black coral exhibits a range of colors when alive, including red, brown, green, and yellow, with the skeleton underneath being black or dark brown. The Maldivians harvests the Endheri mainly or 3 reasons: 1. As an ingredient of traditional medicine: it was used to smoothen the skin and heal external wounds. 2. For a pearl producing crustacean (oyster) that inhabits in Endheri: this was an ingredient used in Maldivian traditional medicine for treating permanent scars. 3. For making ornamental handicrafts: pieces of Endheri are used to craft jewelry and ornaments. This craft has diminished due to the implementation of environmental laws and sustainable practices. However, this craft was most widely used in the mid 20th century due to the introduction of tourism in Maldives to make ornamental handicrafts. The first step of the preparation process for making ornamental products is acquiring dried and cleaned Endheri. After that the Endheri manipulated as desired by the artisan. There are 3 main ways for this: 1. Cutting and shaving it: used for creation of ornamental models such as a model of a small Mas Odi (fishing boat). This way of Endheri manipulation involve employment of Thedhu-uiyy Vadaan (tongue and groove technique) and Kissaru Vadaan (technique used in boa building but, in this case, applied to crafts). 2. Using Dhiguharugai Liyun (a traditional technique for engraving on wood): mostly used to decorate ornaments made from Endheri. When this technique is used the ornaments also show stunning display of traditional lacquer work of Maldives. 3. Heating it to bend it: usually used for jewelry like bangles and rings. In conclusion, Endhereege Masakaiyy (crafting with Endheri or black coral) reflects a significant aspect of Maldivian cultural heritage, combining artistry with traditional knowledge. Despite its diminished prevalence due to environmental regulations, the intricate techniques used to shape Endheri into ornamental handicrafts serve as a testament to the craftsmanship that once thrived. Today, while the use of Endheri is regulated, the legacy of this craft continues to hold cultural significance, showcasing the deep connection between the Maldivian people and their natural environment. |
| Book/Journal Title | Proclamation(Faithoora ފަތްތޫރަ) |
| Publisher | The Academy of Dhivehi Language (Dhivehi Bahuge Academy) |
| Place of Publication | Male', Maldives |
| Date of Publication | Mar 1982 |
| Issue | 36 |
| Pages | 9-14 |
| Access URL | http://qaumiyyath.gov.mv/docs/whitepapers/history/seafaring.pdf |
| Academic Field | Social practice Arts and crafts |
| Community/Ethnic Group | Maldivians |
| Contributor | National Centre for Cultural Heritage |
| Active Contribution | Maldives, FY 2024 |
| Data Collection Project | |