Sejnane is a town in Northern Tunisia, known for its Berber clay artifacts and pottery, especially its Berber clay dolls.
The pottery skills of the women of Sejnane relate to the practice of using a specific technique to produce terracotta artefacts for the home, including cooking utensils, dolls and animal figurines inspired by the environment. All stages of the pottery-making process are performed by women, who also sell the pots in the village and by the side of neighbouring roads; women therefore occupy a prominent place in the community.
The pottery skills of the women of Sejnane have been recognized in 2018 by the UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. They are known for their practice of using a specific technique to produce terracotta artifacts, sometimes decorated with red and black patterns.
Men are involved in the sales process, making this a family-based craft that promotes family cohesion.
The knowledge and skills relating to the craft of handmade pottery in Sejnane are passed down through traditional and informal education, in communities where daughters are encouraged to learn this art of firing alongside going to school.
