Ancestral craftmanship

A living heritage

The south of Martinique is a veritable melting pot of traditional craftsmanship, inherited from pre-Columbian, African and European cultures. This expertise, passed down from generation to generation, reflects the ingenuity and creativity of Martinican craftspeople. These traditional crafts symbolise the island’s deep-rooted identity.

Weaving and basketry

Weaving is one of Martinique’s most iconic traditional crafts, using natural materials such as bakoua (Pandanus utilis), latanier and cachibou (Calathea lutea) to make a variety of items: bakoua hats, baskets, mats and decorative items.

  • Bakoua hat: a symbol of rural Martinican identity, this spiral-woven hat is made from the fibres of the bakoua, a local plant that is resistant to sun and rain. Traditionally worn by farm labourers and fishermen, this hat has now become a cultural symbol, prized for its authenticity and elegance.
  • Baskets, mats and decorative items: made using traditional techniques, they are used in everyday life or as decorative features.

Pottery: The legacy of the Arawaks

Pottery from Martinique has its roots in Native American traditions. Potters use local clay to create both functional and artistic objects:

  • Carafe, canari, coco-nèg, tesson: traditional kitchen utensils made using the colombin technique.
  • Decorative pottery: adorned with Creole motifs, these pieces bear witness to the evolution of this art form over the centuries.

The Pottery Village in Trois-Îlets is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to discover this craft.

Wood carving and ‘bwa floté’

Woodworking is another cornerstone of Martinican craftsmanship. Artisans carve local woods to create

  • Everyday objects and furniture: ranging from cutlery to traditional furniture, these pieces combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.
  • Works of art: figurines, masks and sculptures inspired by Creole culture.

‘Bwa-floté’ – driftwood collected from beaches – is also used to create original pieces that blend nature and imagination.

Jewellery and handcrafted items

Artisans combine tradition and modernity to create unique pieces:

  • Jewellery made from local seeds: necklaces, bracelets and earrings crafted from seeds found on the island.
  • Coral and shell creations: inspired by the sea, these pieces reflect the island environment.

This jewellery is often sold at craft markets and in local shops.