Basket Weaver's Fair

 

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		Basket Weavers from all over France and Spain came to Issigeac this weekend for the annual "Foire aux Paniers".   Each region of France was represented with "artisanale" weavers both weaving and selling their wares.
One of the exhibitors specialised in making baby cribs and prams.  The beautiful bassinette on the right, mounted on a rocking platform, as well as the pram above are both his work.
		This is the first time I have ever seen a wicker pram!! Most regions had representatives actually demonstrating the old art of basket weaving with many different styles being produced.
Hervé Charmarty is a local "vannier" from our region of the Perigord  He was demonstrating his skills making baskets and trugs using wicker and chestnut to produce some nice effects.
		This display, from the Dordogne departement is of good luck charms for the house.  Apparently, wheat, present in the house brings good luck and happiness.  These charms certainly brought a lot of happiness.
Victor Dettinger was too shy to admit his age to me but he did tell me that he had been weaving baskets for over fifty years.  I spent quite a few moments chatting to this chap about the demise of this traditional skill.