Bizzilla
By on July 17, 2009 7:38 AM
Bizzilla or lace making is an old tradition amongst the Maltese islands, moreso on the island of Gozo. Hand made lace making with bobbins is derived from Genoese lace and was mastered in both Malta and Gozo by the mid -17th Century. Unfortunately it's a dying art as the minimal income derived from lace making does not justify the long hours of intricate work involved.
Across Gozitan villages during the summer months you can still see women gathered together of an evening outside their doorway making lace. There is something about it that I find quietly reassuring.
Photo - Bfenech (2007)
Post Script 12th January, 2010.
Out of love and respect for my Aunt, the original image of her has now been removed. My intention was to highlight a dying art on the island of Gozo. In no way did I intend to cause harm or disrespect.
I'm filled with immense pride and admiration as I reflect upon all the amazing things that the women in our family have endured and achieved over the years.
Across Gozitan villages during the summer months you can still see women gathered together of an evening outside their doorway making lace. There is something about it that I find quietly reassuring.
Photo - Bfenech (2007)
Post Script 12th January, 2010.
Out of love and respect for my Aunt, the original image of her has now been removed. My intention was to highlight a dying art on the island of Gozo. In no way did I intend to cause harm or disrespect.
I'm filled with immense pride and admiration as I reflect upon all the amazing things that the women in our family have endured and achieved over the years.
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I wish I had the patience for lace making, it's amazing what they produce, absolutely gorgeous. Such a shame it's not appreciated like it once was.
This is a priceless photo! I think rollers in the hair should be considered a part of the national dress! Malta wouldn't be Malta without women in rollers.
My busnanna used to make lace and I sewed the only remnant left of her lace onto part of my wedding dress. My great aunt Miriam still makes it I think. It is a reassuring thing!
What a wonderful hobby/talent. I would love to see what the finished product looks like, do you have more photos? I love when people still practice the old ways of making things ... I attempt to knit but can only master scarves.
That sounds beautiful. You need a lot of time and patience.
Oh wonderful! as a textile designer I'd be straight into it....I just love any lacework & understand the skill involved.
oh, i love this handmade lace is so beautiful and intricate. i have no idea how to make it, but i WAS wondering lately where a good source for it was.
cannot wait to explore your blog more.
My mother is an experienced lacemaker and will just love this. The photo is wonderful!
It's good to know that there are still women in Malta and Gozo making bizzilla, with or without their rollers!
Denise if you google 'bizzilla' and search for images you will find a whole lot of gorgeous photos of Gozitan lace.
Cate the only place I would by bizzilla is from Malta or Gozo. Unfortunately there is a lot of fake, machine made bizzilla around, that get's past of as the genuine article.
Your mother sounds like a very patient women! Thanks Duncan for your lovely feedback.