The Graphic and Decorative Physiognomy of the Folk Art in Albania

Abstract

This article brings into the focus the graphic, decorative and ornamental features of the folk art in Albania, along its historical evolution. The article focuses on its concrete aspect, on the features that represent primarily the role taken by the Albanian woman in the preparation of the different types of clothing and textiles, and secondly, her contribution in the completion of the market demands in the 19 th century on. In this respect,the cotton fabrics,which were spread especially in the lowlands aredistinguished for their beauty and professional texture, the flax textiles in the remote mountainous regions and the silk ones in the regions where the silkworm was cultivated. It is estimated that the rate of production and the use of the silk tekstiles was bigger than in the other countries of the Balkans. In these textiles, a notable importance was given to the folk art of embroidery, expressed in the diversity of colors, ornaments and ornamental composition. Among others, in the Albanian folk art, the wool textiles are distinguished for their motifs and ornaments, for their design and the rich diversity of colors. These change from region to region,according to the traditions, technique, and in some cases the quality of the material used. Keywords: folk, colors, ornaments, textiles, art.