The tradition of basket weaving in Posavina, once a very popular and profitable trade, is slowly dying out. We looked into how dedicated craftsmen, who learned the craft from their ancestors, are keeping these skills alive. However, there are fewer and fewer successors, as there is no support for this profession.
Before the war, around a hundred families in Tolisa were engaged in basket weaving, but today only five or six remain, among them the Dominkovic family, which has been weaving willow wicker for over a century and a half. Anto represents the third generation, and for him, this work is more than just a trade.
“I do it for my soul, I do it so I don’t get bored and because I love it and I can still do it. I am still useful, and that means a lot to me. If a person can be useful, they should be useful.”
Although in his eighth decade of life, Anto spends most of his retirement days in his workshop. Along with his two brothers, he preserves this tradition from being forgotten, but unfortunately, the future does not look bright.
“This will die out, it’s certain that it will die out. I was an optimist my whole life, but now I am realistic. We no longer have enough children even for school, let alone for weaving baskets. People are leaving, moving away. My children also got their education and left– there is nothing for them in weaving baskets or furniture, in handmade crafts. It’s not that you can’t make a living from it, but it’s not a profession that can keep up with today’s standards.”
This craftsman sources his materials from local growers, and his specialty is furniture making. His products are found across Europe and in the United States (U.S.), and they have been ordered by many well-known individuals.
“I have made about a hundred types of sofas, loveseats, armchairs, ottomans… More exclusive venues took more exclusive pieces, while the less exclusive ones opted for simpler items. Mostly armchairs, tables, furnishings, blinds, walls, counters, bar stools…“
Besides furniture, Anto also makes traditional Easter baskets, designed by his father, with the finishing touches done by his wife. There is certainly demand for handmade willow wicker products, but unfortunately, says this experienced craftsman, there is no one left to do the work. He adds that he will continue weaving for as long as he breathes, just like his father did.
