Travailleuses

Travailleuses are a type of folk pottery originating from the Upper Volta region in what is now Burkina Faso. The word "travailleuse" literally means "working woman" in French, reflecting the predominantly female artisans who create these traditional vessels.

Characterized by their handmade construction using coils and strips of clay, travailleuses are typically formed into various shapes, including tall jugs, cylindrical vessels, and flat dishes. These containers often feature intricate designs, such as geometric patterns and mythological creatures, created using traditional techniques like slip-trauma and scoring.

Travailleuses have been an integral part of Burkinabé culture for centuries, used for storing grains, seeds, and other household items. The potters' skill and craftsmanship have been passed down through generations, with women often learning the trade from their mothers or other female relatives.

The materials used in creating travailleuses are typically locally sourced: earth clays, water, and vegetal ash for firing. While still practiced today, the production of travailleuses has slowly declined due to urbanization and modernization.

Despite this, these handmade vessels continue to be appreciated for their aesthetic value and cultural significance. Travailleuses are now sought after by collectors and can be found in various museums and private collections worldwide. Efforts to preserve and document the techniques involved in creating these traditional vessels have been undertaken by cultural institutions and organizations.

The development of travailleuses highlights the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of Burkinabé potters, especially the female community that has traditionally maintained these ancient skills. Their creations continue to inspire interest in African folk art and cultural heritage.