« voice of broomstick" »

Faïence polychrome, circa 1930.

This plate refers to the Bazh-valan, literally “broomstick,” an ancient Breton custom related to marriages. The matchmaker, sometimes called the bazh-valan, goes to a farm with a branch of broom, symbolizing his mission. His role is to praise the qualities of a local young man to a young woman and her family in order to arrange a union. This messenger of the heart often uses wit and diplomacy to present the suitor in the best possible light. If the proposal is accepted, the branch of broom is accepted; if not, it remains on the doorstep. This picturesque tradition, imbued with humor and finesse, bears witness to an ancient art of romantic mediation in rural Brittany.