About
Preserve, document, and transmit our artisanal heritage
The Encyclopedia of Mauritanian Handicrafts is the result of a collective commitment that brought together:
The Artisans : Our deepest gratitude goes first to every artisan across our regions for sharing their ancestral skills and for their active participation in this co-construction project. They are the beating heart of this heritage.
Political Commitment : His Excellency Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani places great importance on the development and promotion of our national crafts. The Ministry responsible for this sector, under the leadership of Minister Mohamed Malainine Ould Eyih, has been fully invested in achieving this goal, carrying the project forward with consistency and determination.
Our Partners : To our technical and financial partners, professional organizations, experts, and teams, we express our sincere thanks for their essential support and contributions to the promotion of craftsmanship.
Our Objectives: A Tool for Transmission
The Encyclopedia is a dynamic platform that aims to :
- Document : Describe the materials, know-how, and techniques unique to each artisanal product.
- Disseminate and make accessible : Share this knowledge through a digital platform open to all.
- Protect : Identify and document endangered knowledge.
- Inspire : Encourage transmission to younger generations and spark new vocations.
Methodology
A Collaborative and Field-Based Approach
The Encyclopedia is the result of an unprecedented collective effort, based on a unique co-construction approach involving artisans, institutions, researchers, and development actors.
This approach rests on four key principles:
Our work relies on inclusive collaboration with artisans through:
Participatory inventory of living heritage linked to crafts, with field surveys to collect detailed information about products, their fabrication, social function, and cultural meaning.
Participatory workshops for observing techniques, sharing experiences, and gathering needs.
Fieldwork and Direct Collaboration with Artisans
Field surveys
collection of detailed information about the products, their manufacturing processes, and their contexts of use.
Participatory workshops
observation of techniques, exchange of experiences, and gathering of needs and expectations.