Netturpetti', the ethnic jewel box of the Kerala woman was once a
mark of the influential families of the land. The casket ( petti)
originally designed in the Nettur region of Malabar is testimony of
the patience and skill of the artisans who make it. The box usually
made of rosewood is fully handcrafted. Every joint, every screw and
lock is shaped and chiselled by the hand. The wooden box is first
varnished and then fixed with brass frames. Today, this richly embellished
box with its conical lid is a collector's item. Very few of the artisans
remain and the casket is fast becoming a rare object.
You can pick up a Netturpetti for Rs. 2000/- onwards at the SMSM
Institute, a state owned emporium in Thiruvananthapuram.
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