Segraeti - 21 / Jul / 2022
The Moor's head, "testa di Moro" in Italian, is an artisanal decoration typical of the southern regions of Italy. Each piece is a work of art that embodies the passion and traditional fervor of Sicily.
The Moor's head, "testa di Moro" in Italian, is an artisanal decoration typical of the southern regions of Italy. Each piece is a work of art that embodies the passion and traditional fervor of Sicily. It was used as a symbol of power and strength, often featured on the coats of arms of Sicilian aristocratic families, such as the Gravina princes, the Marquis of Monteleone and the Butera princes.
In Italian culture, these emblematic figures have always been linked to luck; they were considered talismans that protected their owners from evil spirits or bad luck during their travels. Since then, this tradition has evolved into an object that not only expresses cultural heritage, but also represents a gift given by parents when their children leave home.
They are so widespread in Sicily that they have become one of the symbols of the island. These particular objects adorn balconies, gardens and Sicilian houses. The singular appearance of these typical vases, called “graste” in the Sicilian dialect, nevertheless derives from a macabre legend located in Palermo, mixing love and revenge.
The legend takes place around the year 1100, during the period of Moorish domination in Sicily, in the Arab quarter of Palermo. A pretty lonely girl spent her days at home tending to her plants on her balcony. She quickly caught the eye of a young Moor who declared his love for her. This love was reciprocal but short-lived. Indeed, the latter did not have a totally free heart and was soon to join his wife and children.
Devastated by this news, the young girl chose to take revenge. So at night, while the Moor slept, she struck him mortally so that he would never leave her again. She would then have cut off his head and created a vase with it, in which she placed a sprout of basil. (Note that it is better not to betray a Sicilian!). She continued to take care of this Testa di Moro on her balcony. The neighbors quickly envied her and thus made terracotta pots which had the same characteristics as the one the girl was in charge of. Today, the Testa di Moro is crowned, in memory of its protagonist.
This culture is very old and rich in history. The ancient Greeks called Sicily "Sikalia", which means "island of flowers". This name was given to it because of the fertility of its soil and the fact that it was an excellent place to plant citrus fruits (especially lemons) which give the region its unique aroma.
Luana Project was born from the idea of bringing together in a single platform all the best design elements selected from those produced by the best craftsmen and artists of the Mediterranean region.
Hand-crafted, each piece is unique and relates to exceptional craftsmanship. The Sicilian heads of Luana Project will bring a Mediterranean touch to your decoration.
To conclude, the Moor's head is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in Sicily. It is a symbol of pride and tradition that should not be missed when visiting this magical island. Whether you are looking for an original gift or want to add a touch of fantasy to your interior, Segraeti Monte-Carlo has the best of design in store for you!
Find our Luana Project selection in the Segraeti Monte-Carlo shop and here.
