Villaines-les-Rochers, France
A willow with light foliage, petite grisette is the lace-making thread of basket-weavers. Its fine but strong withies lend themselves to the most delicate of weaves. The art of wickerwork has been practiced since the 7th century in Villaines-les-Rochers, an ancient troglodyte village in Touraine, and is perpetuated by the fifty or so wickerworkers and basket-makers in the local wickerwork cooperative. Hermès, which has been partner of this structure created in 1849 for over forty years, has strengthened its commitment over time, in a spirit of constantly renewed creativity. From objects for the home, the collaboration has extended to incorporate bags and fashion accessories. The marriage of wicker and leather, a source of creation and innovation for the house, has given new impetus and prospects to these activities, which are firmly rooted in the Touraine region. By promoting these exceptional skills, new vocations are inspired and the craft lives on.
