Malta's Dying Crafts and the Artisans Keeping Them Alive
Malta, like any other microstate, is seeing the slow extinction of its traditional industries as the globe rushes towards modernisation. Once the backbone of the community, these traditional trades are now in risk of vanishing into obscurity, taking with them the distinctive skills and knowledge that have been passed down through the years. Nevertheless, amid modern life’s chaos, a few committed craftspeople manage to preserve these dying crafts, thereby safeguarding an essential aspect of Malta’s cultural heritage.
OhMyMalta will be highlighting some traditional crafts that are still being practiced today.
Maltese lace, often known as ‘bizzilla’, is among the most recognisable handicrafts on the island. Lace-making, brought to Malta by the Knights of St. John in the sixteenth century, prospered, especially in Gozo, where it developed into an industry. Once considered a testament to Maltese beauty and workmanship, the elaborate motifs were meticulously crafted by experienced lace-makers. But in recent decades, the market has become oversupplied with less expensive, machine-made lace substitutes, which has decreased the demand for handcrafted lace. The number of lace manufacturers has drastically decreased, and the ones who are left frequently are elderly women who labour from home. These ladies have an unmatched skill set; they use bobbins and pins to weave elaborate designs, a process that takes a great deal of patience and accuracy.
Malta also has a rich and ancient heritage of goldsmithing that dates to the Phoenician period. Maltese goldsmiths were well known for their beautiful filigree work, which is the art of creating delicate motifs by twisting fine gold or silver wires. Traditionally, jewellery, decorations, and sacred artefacts were made using this complex art style. There are now very few expert goldsmiths in Malta, and the classic filigree items are only made in a few studios. This is a labour-and-time-intensive trade that demands a high degree of ability and acute attention to detail. Unfortunately, there is less of a market for such laboriously made goods in this day of mass manufacturing and rapid fashion. However, there are still goldsmiths in Malta who are dedicated to maintaining this antiquated craft despite these difficulties. In addition to upholding age-old methods, these craftspeople are bringing new ideas to the field and producing sleek, modern patterns that capture the spirit of Maltese filigree.
Malta’s traditional fishing boat, the ‘luzzu’, is a timeless representation of the island’s nautical history. The luzzu is more than simply a boat; with its vivid colours and the iconic ‘eye of Osiris’ painted on the bow, it serves as a reminder of Malta’s maritime history. Customarily crafted by proficient artisans employing methods transmitted throughout several generations, every luzzu embodies the artistry and self-respect of its creator.
Unfortunately, fewer young people are choosing to pursue careers in boat construction, which puts the craft in danger. The market for classic wooden luzzus has decreased as a result of the introduction of fibreglass boats, which are less expensive and require less care. Many elder artisans who learnt the technique from their dads and grandfathers are among the few boat builders who still work today. They have a lot of information about the materials, methods, and customs associated with manufacturing boats—knowledge that might be lost if the craft disappears.
Maintaining a link to Malta’s cultural past is equally as important to the survival of these ancient crafts as skill preservation. Every craft narrates a tale about the people, history, and way of life on the island. The tales and customs these transactions symbolise disappear along with them.
An organised effort to sustain and promote these crafts is necessary to make sure they don’t completely vanish. This entails giving young people an opportunity to acquire these skills, supporting artisans financially, and spreading knowledge of the cultural importance of these industries. By doing this, Malta can make sure that the beauty and creativity of these ancient crafts are appreciated by future generations and ensure that its rich cultural legacy is conserved.
