Pizzi di Burano – Linens and Lace Burano Venice

It takes time to create beautiful things. Sometimes it takes decades or centuries of experience passed on from generation to generation. It is a way to see the world. A machine can attempt to copy a work of art but somehow, no matter how perfect the copy, it is still a copy. The final product lacks soul. For many this is not important. All that matters is the look but for those who are looking for meaning in life the human touch makes a difference. The embroidered linens and laces from Burano capture the soul of the artisan. Their designs and workmanship are part of a local culture dating back to the XV century.

A local story tells of a young fisherman cleaning his nets. He finds an intricate weave of dried seaweed entangled in the web. It strikes him so that he is convinced that a mermaid has woven the beautiful design. The young fisherman is soon to be wed and gives his precious find to his bride to be to show his intent. The young girl jealously cares for the gift while her fiancé is out to sea. Day after day she longs for her love. Her only comfort the gift he left.

She realizes that seaweed is a living plant and could easily wither and die thus she decides to recreate this sign of her love with thread and needle. As time passes, the miracle is realized and the Laces of Burano are born.

The laces and embroidered linens of Burano have been part of the ceremonies for the coronation of kings and queens since Luigi XIV when Maria di Tudor and Caterina de’ Medici wore Burano Lace Nets to hold their hair. There are other beautiful laces created in Venice and surrounding area but the Laces of Burano are unique. The knot tied, called the Burano knot, is tied mid air. No, I am not able to show how it is done but it is a wondrous thing to see.

Burano is famous throughout Europe for its excellent craftsmanship. The little island, located in the Laguna of Venice, is also famous for its eclectic colors. Houses of bright reds, blues, oranges and yellow intermingle without any specific order or design evidencing the artist nature part of everyday life. This is a happy town, a marvelous place to visit, and the locals are open and inviting. The foods are those of Venice and the wines marvels of Friuli-Venezia-Giulia. There are local museums and the artisans will allow you to visit their laboratories if scheduled in advance. Your hotel will be able to give you the best contacts and arrange travel.

Tags: Lace Venice Italian Museums Art and Culture Renaissance Travel Italy