India : UNESCO honours 33 handicrafts with Seal of Excellence
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Orissa [2011-05-20]
The prestigious UNESCO Seal of Excellence of 2007 witnessed the entry of 155 handicraft works from South Asian region. Of these, 12 Indian craftsmen were accredited with the Seal.
Awardees from India presented artworks of algaed Kahadi, scarf, bamboo mat, wall hanging, silk scarf, hand block printed Stole, Lamp Wood Inlay, Brass Pods, Jewellery Box, Papier Mache Jewellery Box, and Chandrokhani Shawl.
The international panel of jurists includes specialists in spheres of design, marketing and handicrafts. Entrees claiming the Seal of Excellence were scrutinized on the criteria of excellence, innovation, authenticity, marketability and eco-friendliness.
By recognizing these dimensions in artwork, UNESCO aims at strengthening standards of quality, create global awareness and promote demand for Asian handicraft products in the market. Besides, the event also ensures to encourage the use of traditional skills in handicraft goods and prevent the degeneration of cultural heritage and craft industry.