Burmese Red Lacquered Tray on Stand (Kalat)- Ms8818

Burmese Red Lacquered Tray on Stand (Kalat)
Mid 20th century, Shan States - Burma 
Dimensions: Ht 50 x Dia 23 cm 
 

*The 20th (twentieth) century began on January 1, 1901, and ended on December 31, 2000.

This kalat (also known as a daung-lan) is a small table or tray with attached stand is from the Shan States of 
Eastern Burma, most probably from the Intha people of Inla Lake in Yawnghwe State. It is painted with lacquer rather 
than having the lacquer thickly applied as with pieces from elsewhere in Burma. The lacquer has been applied to a 
fine wood base. The red lacquer ground is over-painted, which is typical of the region. The underside of the tray is 
in red.

The gently concave circular tray is fixed to a ring which is attached to eleven pegs which in turn are attached to 
another ring. Kalats were designed as food trays that were placed on the floor and from which food was served 
communally. Diners would sit around it, also on the floor, and so the kalat would be at waist level. Dishes of food 
were placed in the centre of the kalat and each diner would have a plate and would help himself from the kalat.