Ecuadorian Artisans Fight to Preserve Traditional Horsehair Weaving Craft
Ecuadorian artisans working to preserve craft of weaving horsehair strainers
Image: Abc News
In Guangopolo, Ecuador, artisans like Ligia Ipiales and Guido Paucar are struggling to maintain the traditional craft of weaving horsehair sieves, known as 'cedazos.' With only nine artisans remaining, the craft faces decline due to competition from cheaper plastic alternatives and changing agricultural practices.
- 01Only nine artisans remain in Guangopolo, Ecuador, preserving the traditional craft of horsehair sieve weaving.
- 02The craft was once a livelihood for around 500 Indigenous families, producing up to 600 sieves monthly.
- 03The price of horsehair has surged, costing about $1,000 for 100 pounds (45 kilograms), complicating production.
- 04Artisans are attempting to train new generations through workshops, but interest has waned among youth.
- 05The traditional sieves were essential in Ecuadorian kitchens until industrial alternatives became prevalent.
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In Guangopolo, Ecuador, artisans are working to keep the traditional craft of weaving horsehair sieves, known as 'cedazos,' alive. Ligia Ipiales, 76, and Guido Paucar, 51, are among the last nine artisans in the village, where this craft was once a major source of income for around 500 Indigenous families. Fifty years ago, these artisans produced up to 600 sieves monthly, but now they only sell about 10 per week due to competition from cheaper plastic alternatives. The craft's decline is exacerbated by the rising cost of materials, particularly horsehair, which can cost around $1,000 for 100 pounds (45 kilograms). Efforts to train a new generation of weavers through workshops have largely failed, as younger individuals show less interest in continuing this traditional art form. The artisans emphasize that the loss of this craft would mean losing a vital part of their village's identity, as these sieves were once indispensable in Ecuadorian kitchens for sifting flour.
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The decline of the horsehair weaving craft threatens the cultural identity of Guangopolo and the livelihoods of the remaining artisans.
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