The collective brand “Artesanato dos Açores” (Azores Handicrafts) will comprise, starting now, the fish scale works which are handmade during all stages of production.

The decision was adopted by an ordinance of the Regional Secretary for the Economy, published in the Official Journal on Monday. It is justified by the fact that the art of working with fish scales, a convent traditional art, is part of the archipelago tradition, being widely appreciated by visitors.

The brand “Artesanato dos Açores” had already included embroidery, lace, weaving, fig kernel, Holy Christ registos (representations) and bolos lêvedos (Portuguese sweet muffins), and it will now comprise fish scale works, which is a particularly relevant tradition on the island of São Miguel.

In the 20th century, this type of handicrafts has evolved in 80’s with the increase of tourism. Moreover, its production has double in the following decade with the increasing demand, especially during the summer.

For the Azorean Government, the impact of certification of handicrafts products ensures the continuity of the collective brand “Artesanato dos Açores,” which is fundamental for the dissemination and commercialisation of the most authentic productions of the archipelago.