Opening of a public inquiry for the geographical indication “Fayl-Billot basketworkâ€

The request for a “Fayl-Billot basketworkâ€ geographical indication concerns 5 companies spread across the departments of Haute-Marne and Haute-Saône. It covers products manufactured using the so-called “strandâ€ braiding technique, that is to say the interweaving of strands by hand.

All Fayl-Billot basketry manufacturing operations must be carried out in the geographical area defined in the specifications.
 

The public inquiry is open to all (individuals, businesses, local authorities, etc.) and will close on November 22, 2023. To consult the specifications and make an observation, click on the tab below.

Basketry is an art which consists of making woven objects with plant fibers – mainly wicker. It is also considered one of the oldest manual activities in the world.

In Fayl-Billot, the cradle of French basketry, this know-how has been perpetuated since the Neolithic era. Haute-Marne offers environmental conditions conducive to the growth of willow (wicker being a one-year-old willow shoot). It is both the working of this raw material and the learning of weaving techniques that have made the Fayl-Billot basket weavers famous. Baskets, baskets, jewelry, bags, shopping bags, furniture… a variety of everyday objects are made and appreciated for their aesthetics and durability.

Today, this craft remains up to date, in particular thanks to the National School of Osiericulture and Basketry of Fayl-Billot, which offers learning while respecting the traditional techniques specific to the region.

 

Source: specifications of the basketry development and promotion committee

A geographical indication distinguishes a product originating from a specific geographical area, which has qualities, reputation or characteristics linked to this place of origin. It protects the name of said product from counterfeits and other copies. Its characteristics are specified in specifications examined by the INPI. Approval is issued following an investigation and a public inquiry conducted by the INPI. 14 geographical indications have been approved by the INPI since the system came into force and three applications are currently being examined.