desert decor

Glossy mango wood hosts a forest of flowers in a work of art by Nantana Sompamitre This exquisite bowl is lacquered inside and out; the green blossoms are etched by hand. She lathes the mango wood into the desired shape and coats it with lacquer. When dry, it is polished, and another coat is applied – up to twenty times – before as many six coats of pure lacquer are applied. The final layer is polished with powdered fired clay.

This hand-carved weeping willow wood and papier mache decorative box, designed by Mohammad Hussain Baba in India, is blanketed in a bold, hand-painted pattern of deep blue florals that crowd every inch of the lacquered surface in the most satisfying and appealing way. The ivory border frames it all with just enough restraint, while a velvet lining inside makes opening it feel like a small occasion. Display it as a decorative accent on a desk or shelf, or use it to give your most treasured keepsakes the setting they deserve.

Lavender fields have nothing on this. Indian artisan Mohammad Hussain Baba's design floods every surface of this hand-carved weeping willow wood and papier mache decorative box with a dense, hand-painted cascade of violet blooms, punctuated by soft green accents and fine golden-hued detailing that gives the whole composition a quietly regal feeling. The exterior is lacquered to a smooth, lasting finish, while the interior is lined with velvet, making it as charming sitting on a vanity or sideboard as it is practical for storing the small treasures that deserve a beautiful home.