Nettur Patti

Introduction-

Would you not be amazed by the slice of history right by your dressing table! Owning a piece of opulence that royal families used for generations with these beautifully handcrafted boxes. This beautifully handcrafted box is made by skilled artisans that transform high-quality wood into an intricately designed work of art. It is completely handmade, luxuriously decorated and richly colored. This traditional jewel box is a gift that exudes royalty.

 This is the signature box of Kerela popularly known as Nettur Petti. This box is a blend of many crafting techniques and artistic skills. Netter Petti has derived its name from Nettur which is a place that exists between Ernakulam and Kannur Districts in Kerela and Tirunelveli districts in Tamil Nadu. The jewellery box is made from teak, rosewood, Jack and wild jack.

Usage – 

This piece is art is a symbol of the architecture of Kerela. These are beautifully handcrafted brass fixers. This box is used for storing jewellery. This box was used by wealthy families in the past as it has different compartment and secret chamber. This box is made from teak and rose wood. Due to increase in demand of metal cupboard and locker, Nettur petti no longer exist.

Material –

Nettur Patti is made with brass embellishments and it is shaped in the form of traditional house in Kerela. It has regained pride of place as an artefact. It is known as Malabar box and Amada petti in Kerela. Craftsmen follow the old principles to make this craft unique in its own way.

History –

The origin of Nettur petti trace back to days of Mushiga Dynasty which is now called as Chirakkal Rajahs. There is design being done in the architectural detailing done at temples of North Kerela. Nettur petti craft exist in both Kerala. The colour schemes used in Nettur Petti are inspired from Kerela Mural paintings. Enamel pigments are used. In order to make the box looks attractive, bright colors are used such as green, orange, red, yellow and green. These designs are also inspired from flora and fauna. There is also usage of elephant motifs on the box. Elephants have an important role in the tradition and culture of Kerela.

 Challenges –

With the onset of metal safes, cupboards and lockers, Nettur Petti is showing going extinct and many families were discarding it as junk. Bit there are efforts from craftsmen who have undertaken task of reviving this craft form. They have given a new look to the box for present buyers. Now days, people insist on maintains that old look to have that rustic look. Me Suresh has customised Nettur petti with glass on the four sides and presented on canonization of Pope Francis. Covid 19 was the difficult time for craftsmen, government of Kerela supported him by establishing innovative schemes for gifting during popular festival of Kerela.