The Folk Art Collection

In the folk art collection we present objects of  traditional handicrafts,  weaving, tools of weaving, embroidery, laces, pottery, baskets, agricultural tools. Also the production of silk, bee-keeping and the traditional breads of Rethymnon.

Handicraft

In Crete, the major categories of traditional handicrafts, such as basket-weaving, pottery (Room V), weaving (Rooms IΙ and IV), gold- and silver-smithing (Room ΙΙ), embroidery, threadwork (Room III), metal-working (Room IV and Room VI), wood-working, and so on, begin from prehistoric times.

Technical developments in the twentieth century brought changes to the way of life and the machine replaced the hands. Thus, the traditional, age-old handicrafts which accompanied humans from prehistoric to recent times, became collectibles and museum pieces. In Crete these are testimonies of a singular and exceptionally developed Folk Culture.

Showcase with weaver towels

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Showcase with weaver towels

Embroidered pillowcase

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Embroidered pillowcase

Lace, executedin “Point plat de Venice” technique, 17th c.

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Lace, executedin “Point plat de Venice” technique, 17th c.

Painted chest

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Painted chest

Wooden carved mortar and cup

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Wooden carved mortar and cup

Cooper pot for food, 1734

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Cooper pot for food, 1734

Showcase with handicrafts

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Showcase with handicrafts