Sankheda Furniture: A Timeless Legacy of Lacquered Wood Craft from Gujarat

Sankheda Furniture is one of the most distinctive forms of traditional woodcraft from Gujarat, celebrated for its vibrant colors, lacquer finish, and handcrafted elegance. Originating from the small village of Sankheda near Vadodara, this furniture tradition reflects centuries of artistic excellence and cultural identity preserved by skilled artisans.

The Birthplace of Sankheda Furniture

Sankheda is a historic village located in central Gujarat, close to the cultural city of Vadodara. For generations, this region has been the heart of lacquered wood furniture making. The craft evolved as both a functional and decorative art, deeply connected to local customs, homes, and temples.

The geographical identity of Sankheda plays a crucial role in shaping the style and techniques used by artisans. The climate, availability of teakwood, and hereditary skills of local communities collectively define the uniqueness of Sankheda furniture.

The Kharadi Community and Artisan Heritage

The lacquer work of Sankheda furniture is traditionally practiced by the Kharadi community of Gujarat. This artisan group is known for its mastery in wood turning and surface decoration. The craft is passed down through generations, with skills learned through observation, practice, and cultural immersion rather than formal education.

Each artisan specializes in specific stages such as wood turning, surface smoothing, painting, or lacquer finishing. This collective craftsmanship ensures consistency, durability, and artistic precision in every piece of furniture.

Teakwood as the Foundation Material

Sankheda furniture is crafted exclusively from seasoned teakwood, chosen for its strength, longevity, and resistance to pests. The wood is carefully aged and dried before shaping, ensuring stability and long lasting performance.

Teakwood allows smooth turning on traditional tools and absorbs lacquer evenly, which enhances both visual appeal and surface durability. The use of pure teakwood is one of the defining characteristics of authentic Sankheda furniture.

Traditional Production Process

The making of Sankheda furniture involves multiple handcrafted stages that require patience and technical expertise.

The process begins with shaping the wood using manual turning tools. The furniture components are rounded and refined to achieve symmetry and balance. Once shaped, the surface is prepared for decoration.

Artisans then apply floral and abstract motifs using thin sticks dipped in a colored mixture of natural dyes, powdered zinc, lac, and resin. Colors such as maroon, green, vermilion, brown, gold, and silver dominate the palette.

After painting, multiple layers of transparent lacquer are applied. This lacquer coating enhances color depth, creates a glossy finish, and protects the design from wear and moisture.

The Art of Lacquer Decoration

Lacquer work is the soul of Sankheda furniture. The painted designs gain richness under the transparent lacquer layer, giving the furniture its iconic shine and smooth texture.

Motifs are inspired by nature, traditional symbols, and abstract geometry. Despite the vibrant appearance, the designs maintain harmony and balance, reflecting refined aesthetic sensibilities.

Every brushstroke is done by hand, making each piece unique. No two furniture items are exactly alike, even when created by the same artisan.

Types of Sankheda Furniture

Sankheda furniture includes a wide range of functional and decorative items used in homes and cultural spaces.

Common products include stools, chairs, tables, swings, cradles, bed frames, storage units, and temple furniture. These items are often used during weddings, festivals, and ceremonial occasions, symbolizing prosperity and tradition.

Modern adaptations have also introduced Sankheda designs into contemporary interiors, blending heritage craft with modern utility.

Cultural and Social Significance

Sankheda furniture holds deep cultural value in Gujarat. Traditionally, these pieces were part of dowries and family heirlooms. They represented craftsmanship, prosperity, and artistic pride.

Even today, Sankheda furniture is associated with celebration, hospitality, and cultural continuity. It stands as a symbol of India’s handcrafted legacy in an era of mass production.

Registration and Recognition Details

Sankheda Furniture has received official recognition to safeguard its authenticity and preserve its geographical identity. This recognition formally acknowledges Sankheda Furniture as a traditional handicraft rooted in Gujarat and protects it from misuse or imitation.

The registered product is officially known as Sankheda Furniture and falls under the handicrafts category. It is recognized as originating from the state of Gujarat, where the craft has been practiced for generations by skilled artisans using time honored techniques.

The certificate of registration was granted on 10 July 2008. The registered applicant is the Development Commissioner Handicrafts under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. The registered address is located at West Block Number 7, R K Puram, New Delhi, India.

This recognition ensures that only furniture produced using traditional materials, established craftsmanship methods, and within the designated geographical region can be identified and marketed as Sankheda Furniture. It plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of the craft while supporting artisan livelihoods and maintaining quality standards.

Sankheda Furniture in Modern Interiors

Despite its traditional roots, Sankheda furniture has found relevance in contemporary design. Interior designers increasingly use these pieces as accent furniture to add color, character, and heritage value to modern spaces.

The combination of durable teakwood and artistic lacquer makes Sankheda furniture both functional and visually striking. It bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern lifestyle needs.

Final Thoughts

Sankheda Furniture is more than handcrafted wood. It is a living tradition shaped by skilled hands, cultural pride, and artistic discipline. From the Kharadi artisans to the lacquered brilliance of teakwood, every piece carries the spirit of Gujarat’s heritage. Preserving and promoting Sankheda furniture supports sustainable craftsmanship and keeps an ancient art form alive for future generations...

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