Lacemaking in Cluny
The first international ‘couvige’ of lacemaking was held in Cluny this weekend. ‘Couvige’ literally means ‘neighbours’ but is now applied to a meeting of lacemakers. It was organised by the Cluny association who invited 80 lacemakers from all over France, Germany and Switzerland to demonstrate their art. They exhibited at various sites around the Abbey which meant a pleasant amble between them in the sunshine.
Demonstration of bobbin lace
We saw demonstrations of bobbin lace, needle lace, needle tatting, lace imprinted pottery, lace jewellery of silver wire and the finest embroidery imaginable. At the museum of Jean de Bourbon there was also an exhibition of ‘coiffes’, traditional headresses worn a century ago by women from areas around Cluny. The different syles would indicate where the wearers were from and their marital status.
Work in progress
Traditionally, lace was always used as a fine decoration on clothing – collars, edgings, cuffs, veils, trimmings, and handkerchiefs. But now lacework is framed to decorate the home, used to make jewellery or greetings cards, runners and tablemats.
A decorative horse
We were assured that lacemaking is not difficult, somewhat on a par with basketmaking. But it must be a test for both patience and eyesight as a small piece of lace can take hours to produce.
Part of the banner presented to Cluny by the lacemakers
There were two banners presented to Cluny by the lacemakers as an extension to the festivities of Cluny 2010. One depicts the medieval buildings and places of interest in Cluny, and the other depicts the Clunaic sites and the influence of Cluny in Europe. Another huge event is being planned for September 2012 and hopefully our friends from the German, English and Scottish Clunaic sites will be able to join us for another celebration of Cluny Abbey.
