Friday, February 19, 2010

The Makhila, or Basque Walking Stick


















The makhila, the traditionnal Basque walking stick, is a symbol of honour and reflects a certain philosophy and way of life. Elegant, practical, a redoutable defensive weapon as well as a decorative object, the makhila is not only a mark of distinction but also a walking companion - a truly essential element in Basque life.
In the vanguard of Basque craftsmanship, the makhila is made by the Ainciart-Bergara family in the village of Larressore.









Discover, on this beautiful web site, the noble step-by-step method of fabrication, the ancestral "savoir faire" of the only Basque family who still make the makhila by tradition.


Pictures of Jean Ainciart in his 1924 workshop and Joanes Bergera in the same place in 1962.

1 comment:

  1. Congratulations is a very good article about the Makila or Makhila. There are only 2 artisans dedicated to the art of making makilas by the traditional method: Ainciart Bergara and Alberdi Makila.

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