The Nettur Petti is a traditional wooden box that takes its name from Nettur village near Thalassery in Kannur district, where it originated. Built primarily from teak or rosewood, the box is reinforced and decorated with brass strips, studs and locking mechanisms that give it both strength and ornamental appeal.
Historically used by aristocratic and upper-caste Kerala households to store jewellery, documents and valuables, the box's tapering shape resembles a temple gopuram, lending it a sense of sanctity. Today it survives as both a functional heirloom piece and a popular decorative item among collectors of Kerala handicrafts.
How It Is Made
Craftsmen begin by selecting well-seasoned teak or rosewood planks, which are cut and joined to form the box's tapering, pyramid-like body. The wood is shaped using traditional carpentry tools before brass sheets are hand-beaten into strips, studs and corner guards.
- Wood panels are joined using mortise-and-tenon style joinery
- Brass fittings are individually hammered and fixed with rivets, not glue
- A concealed locking mechanism is built into the lid
- The finished box is polished to bring out the wood grain
A single medium-sized Nettur Petti can take several days to weeks to complete, depending on the intricacy of the brass work and the size of the box.
A Heritage Piece from Malabar Households
The Nettur Petti was traditionally part of the trousseau given to brides in Malabar's aristocratic families, passed down as an heirloom across generations. Its temple-gopuram silhouette was not accidental — it reflected the deep connection between Kerala's domestic craft traditions and temple architecture.
- Once a status symbol among landowning and merchant families
- Craftsmanship was often localised to a few skilled families in Nettur and nearby areas
- The number of brass bands and locks sometimes indicated the owner's social standing
Though its everyday use has declined with modern furniture, the box remains a cherished collectible and a symbol of Kerala's woodworking heritage.
Where to See and Buy Nettur Petti
Genuine Nettur Pettis are still made by artisans around Kannur district, particularly near Thalassery, though production has become limited. Government emporiums such as SMSM Institute in Thiruvananthapuram and Kerala State Handicrafts Apex Co-operative Society (Surabhi) outlets across major towns stock certified pieces.
- Check that the wood is genuinely teak or rosewood, not a lighter substitute wood stained darker
- Inspect brass work for hand-hammered irregularities, a sign of authentic craftsmanship
- Ask for a certificate of authenticity at emporiums
- Prices vary with size and brass density, so compare a few pieces before buying
Traveller Tips
- Buy from government emporiums or known artisan clusters to avoid mass-produced imitations
- Check the weight and thickness of the wood; genuine teak boxes feel notably heavy
- Since these boxes are solid wood with metal fittings, request sturdy packing when shipping
- Supporting Kannur's artisan co-operatives helps keep this declining craft alive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Nettur Petti used for?
It is a traditional wooden box used to store jewellery, valuables and important documents in Kerala households.
Where does the Nettur Petti originate from?
It originates from Nettur village near Thalassery in Kannur district, Kerala.
What materials are used to make it?
It is made from teak or rosewood, reinforced and decorated with hand-worked brass fittings.
Is the Nettur Petti still made today?
Yes, though production has reduced, a few artisan families near Kannur continue to craft it, and it is sold through Kerala's government handicraft emporiums.
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