For illustrating this section, we can produce on request a large size HD poster (up to 180x100 cm in size). These posters should be adapted to each country, on a case-by-case basis, in order to prominently feature locally produced coconut products, and to promote the marketing of these local products. It is also possible to buy or rent items from the personal collection of Dr R. Bourdeix.
Copra is the dried kernel of coconut. It is usually obtained
by breaking the nut in half and drying it in the sun or in an oven. However, in some coconuts, the Kernel
dries out without the nut being broken. In India, some farmers promote
this drying by putting some coconut in height just under the roof of the
houses. With a lot of patience and time, beautiful designs are carved on these
kernels. Such carvings are is very popular in Southern India, especially in
Karnataka. The carved kernels are given to the bride by the groom's mother on
the wedding day, and they become part of the wedding ceremony.
In most cases the kernels are sculpted, but
it also happens that they are only adorned, dressed and staged using fabrics but
also other plants. In the case of this charming little God Ganesh, the trunk and
the two ears are cashew nuts. Finally, in a model not represented here, complex
compositions sculpted in coconut kernels are presented and preserved in bottles...