“The declaration file of Cultural Interest Good (BIC) regarding the Traditional Roset Craftsmanship of Tenerife, recognised as part of our Island’s Heritage of Humanity.” This was announced yesterday by Efraín Medina, the Minister of Employment, Education and Youth of the Cabildo, during the unveiling of the International Lace Congress. He deemed the aspiration to obtain this award as “just”. The initial step is to achieve BIC status and await the outcome in October when this global forum on needlework artistry is anticipated.
The president of the International Centre for Heritage Conservation (CICOP), Francisco Aznar, previously remarked that the ROSETA “is already BIC,” a statement that Medina confirmed, stating: “If it is considered World Heritage in Croatia, it must surely be the same for Tenerife, as it originated here.”
The rosette is a distinctive needle lace, characterised by its unique technique. It employs a base known as pique, a padded circular component upon which pins are placed in various arrangements according to the design. Following this, the crafting process commences.
The minister noted that “this technique was once in decline, but it has made remarkable strides in recent years.” A group of artisans were present in the CIFRAN, showcasing their current students. Medina also highlighted the participation of men in a traditionally female-dominated trade, explaining that “men used to conceal their work while their wives took the lead.” He proudly stated: “Today, there are roseteros in this craft, and we will dedicate a day to them during the congress.”
He disclosed that “in series like The Leopard, set in Sicily, they pause to inspect the intricate details of the potential rosettes within costumes. The same principle applies at this gathering.” Regarding the marketing of the island’s artisan products, he stated: “We are not targeting the luxury market as our jewellery and accessories are intended for everyday wear. They are appreciated and sold.” He concluded by referencing Enrique Loewe, remarking that “luxury encompasses anything with a handmade component.” Additionally, he shared a thought from Francisco Aznar, the long-time historical vice-president of Foreign Action: “Heritage is simply what yesterday composed and influences today.” Such is the case of the Tenerife Roseta.
The island will become the global hub for artisan lace techniques
The Cabildo de Tenerife is organising the First International Congress on Lace, which will include “needlework crafts” from across the Americas: Mexico, Paraguay, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, and Argentina, alongside other European contributions, specifically from Spain, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, and the United Kingdom. The event will also feature demonstrations of various lace techniques, including those from the Peninsula and France’s Bolillo. The congress will take place at the Pacheco de Tegueste House and other locations in La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage City, from October 22 to 25. The forum was introduced yesterday at the Cabildo’s Noble Hall, with attendees including Minister of Education and Employment Efraín Medina, Tegueste Mayor Ana Mena, Aguere Councilor for Promotion and Local Development Domingo Galván, manager of the Island Company of Crafts Ricardo Cólogan, and Francisco Aznar Vallejo, president of the CICOP Foundation.
