Wood Turning (Shazo)

The art of wood turning and lacquering is known as Shazo which is one of the ancient tradition found in Bhutan. It was a headitary craft being practiced which was being passed from parents to sons and represents a part of the material culture. Who works in production through is craft is known as Shazopa– master of wood turning. Unlike other arts and craft found in Bhutan, this art is mostly being practiced by the people of Trashiyangtse and Mongar in Eastern Bhutan. Shazopas are skilled in making wooden bowls, cups and containers from naive wood to highly precious wood. Locally known as ‘Zaa‘ which is a special knot of tree is highly priced and considered as auspicious and valued.
In ancient time they used wooden lathe to turn the wood and curve them out which required 2 person with high energy but with development they no more use traditional lathe. Now they use single phase or three phased electric motor to turn the wood which is more efficient and effective.