Ancient arts have their roots in the rural and domestic nature of Sardinians

Ancient arts have their roots in the rural and domestic nature of Sardinians. Original objects of art are still made following the ancient methods, for instance in wood carving or engraving, especially widespread in the mountainous regions like Barbagia where utensils, furniture and the famous wooden masks of Mamuthones, Su Bundu and Merdules are made. The manufacture of cork, extracted from the Quercus Suber (cork oak), is important for the economy. It was also used by the Romans in the construction of sandals and jar lids. Calagianus in the Gallura Province, where the first cork factory was opened in 1851, is considered the cork capital of Italy. The extraction of granite was also started by the Romans in the same area where the imposing granite Monte Limbara can be seen. Reeds, raffia, asphodel, and parts of bark of various colours, are skilfully used throughout Sardinia to weave a variety of baskets, doormats etc. The weaving and embroidery of bedspreads, tapestries, carpets, shawls, headgear and costumes, characterised by a remarkable richness of colour and geometry are still made using wooden hand looms. Notable examples are the carpets of Aggius, Mogoro and Samugheo, the embroideries of Bosa and the Shawls of Oliena. Since the 12th century the art of filigree has been practised, now used principally to produce jewellery for typical Sardinian costumes and for festivals and weddings. The Sardinian faith and Nuorese cornelian cherry are very famous examples of these. Sardinian red gold - coral, of the highest quality in the world, is also used in the production of jewellery, Alghero being one of the major production centres. Also typical are the very ancient ceramic and terracotta crafts created in a profusion of colours and forms. Blade forging for producing jack-knives is dominant in three small centres: Pattada, Santu Lussurgiu and Arbus, whose names come from typical shepherds’ knives – La Pattadesa, la Lussurgesa and l’Arburesa. Those fond of horses harnesses will appreciate the crafting of saddles and bridles, as well as cartridge belts, rucksacks and su cossu (calfskin waistcoat) produced in Santu Lussurgiu, a small pastoral centre in Oristano Province.