Junco de Forjães
the colourful networks of collaboration and art
The work with the reed from Forjães is communal, involving many hands prepared for harvesting, bodies ready for the loom, and skilled voices for negotiation. This artisanal tradition, rooted in the 19th century, is a symbol of cultural identity for the village of Forjães in the Esposende municipality, where the harvesting of reed in the estuaries of the Lima, Âncora, Coura, and Cávado rivers and its transformation into baskets and mats are true testimonials of cooperation and skill.
The process begins with the cutting of the marine reed under the summer sun, in a social event that brings together families and hired workers to secure the necessary raw materials. The saltwater reed, with its cylindrical and robust stem, is distinguished from freshwater reed by its durability and resistance, making it ideal for the production of artisanal artifacts.
After cutting, a meticulous process of sun-drying follows, then sulfuring for whitening and preservation, and dyeing with aniline, which gives vibrant colours to the reed. Ready for weaving, it is intertwined with jute threads, creating strips that are later transformed into baskets and mats. The weaving technique includes loom warping, the insertion of the reed weft, and the creation of geometric and floral patterns, which are the distinctive hallmark of Forjães craftsmanship.
The history of craftsmanship in Forjães dates back to ``Villa Froganis``, a fertile land where agriculture was the basis of subsistence. In their free time, the workers' families engaged in artisanal activities, mainly with wood and textiles, to supplement their income. In the 19th century, the arrival of an immigrant from Ovar introduced reed work and spread the technique in the region. This artisanal production gained great relevance, involving several families and making the craft of mat-making even more recognized in the north of the country.
Despite the challenges brought by industrialization and emigration in the second half of the 20th century, which nearly led to the extinction of the activity, the tradition was revitalized due to renewed interest in sustainable crafts. Various local training and promotion initiatives have rescued the importance of this production, resulting in the certification of the art of Forjães reed in 2021. Today, the tradition preserves a valuable cultural heritage and inspires new generations to appreciate and continue this legacy of cooperation and creativity.
