Kerala Mural Boat – Hand-painted Wooden Decor Red Yellow

The long, upswept silhouette of a snake boat, dressed here in a warm, festive palette of red and yellow scrollwork with small white floral accents marking each compartment divide. It is a busier, more celebratory design than a single flat colour would allow, and it reads as genuinely ornamental rather than merely decorative — the kind of piece that looks intentional on a table even before anything is placed inside it.

This form is drawn from the chundan vallam, Kerala's traditional snake boat, raced competitively during Onam in the Vallam Kali festival that draws entire communities to the backwaters each year. Our artisans hand-carve the wood into this elongated boat shape, lacquer it in black, and then build up the red-and-yellow scrollwork and the small floral details entirely by hand — a slower process than a single painted border, but one that gives this design its layered, textile-like richness.

With four compartments running its length, it's built to hold tea lights, jar candles, or loose petals for a festive table setting, though it stands on its own as a sculptural tray even without anything inside it. Its warm, ornate palette makes it a natural choice for Diwali or Onam gifting, or for anyone furnishing a home that leans toward richer, more layered colour.

Material: Solid Wood, hand-carved and hand-painted in Kerala Mural style.

Dimension: 18 inches length x 3.25 inches width x 3.25 inches height.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired the boat shape and design?

It is modelled on Kerala's traditional snake boat, or chundan vallam, raced during the Vallam Kali festival held as part of Onam celebrations along the state's backwaters.

Can this hold candles or flowers?

Yes, the four compartments are designed to hold tea lights, small jar candles, or loose flowers for a festive display.

Is the red and yellow detailing hand-painted?

Yes, the scrollwork and floral accents are entirely hand-painted by our studio artisans, so expect natural, individual variation from piece to piece.

Is this suitable for serving food directly?

It is intended as a decorative tray for candles, flowers, or display rather than direct food service.

Is this a good festive gifting option?

Yes, its rich red-and-yellow palette and connection to Onam's boat race tradition make it a popular choice for festive and housewarming gifts.

How should I clean and maintain it?

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth, and keep it away from water and prolonged direct sunlight to preserve the lacquer and paintwork.