Hla Day Myanmar

Lacquerware is arguably one of the most famous traditional crafts in Myanmar as its production requires a hot and humid climate. There are many steps involved in creating high-quality lacquer involving a large amount of time, patience and planning to ensure the sourcing and creation process is done to the highest standard. Each piece takes 9 months in the making.

Founded in 2000 in the heart of Bagan, Black Elephant Studio is a sanctuary for traditional Burmese lacquerware (Yun-de)—with a revolutionary twist. Under the guidance of master artist Veronica Gritsenko, whose unique background blends Oriental art with the physics of metals, the studio has elevated this thousand-year-old craft into a boundless fine art.

Unlike modern workshops that rely on shortcuts or synthetic fillers, Black Elephant remains uncompromising. The dedicated team of master artisans uses strictly pure, traditional materials. By applying a scientific approach to the ancient bone ash foundation, they create exceptionally durable, stone-strong lacquerware. You can feel the difference instantly: Black Elephant pieces are distinguished by a pleasantly heavy, substantial weight that serves as a physical signature of their quality.

The studio's breakthrough techniques have also shattered historical limitations, introducing an unprecedented, unlimited colour palette and delicate shading never before seen in Burmese lacquer. By bridging ancient heritage with material science, Black Elephant Studio produces breathtaking works of art engineered to last a lifetime.

Today, this mastery is recognized globally, with Black Elephant pieces held in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions including the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, and the Museo d'Arte Orientale in Turin.

You can learn more about the lacquerware-making process by downloading the booklet here.