Lacquer is the refuse of an insect gathered by the tribals in the forests.The women folk of Balasore and Nawarangpur districts mix it with colurs an apply in on small vane boxes and toys etc made by the tribals and terracotta figures, which they make themselves.After several coats of lacquer have sealed the core, the surface is decorated with motifs borrowed from nature,geometric patterns and religious symbols.Although the visual power of colour and design combine to make an ornamental effect, the artisans are constantly exploring the area of material, form and technique.