Sardinian lapwing: the iconic bird from Sardinia and a symbol of its ceramics craftsmanship
From nature to arts: the sardinian lapwing and its symbolic value
A symbol of fertility and wealth, the sardinian lapwing is th ebird-talisman that, through artisan ceramics, fabrics and jewels, keep telling about the authentic soul of the island.
Sardinia, since the dawn of time a crossroads of history, nature and popular culture, still preserves a priceless folkloric heritage handing down centuries of traditions, legends and daily rituals. In this universe of symbols, stylized images, geometric motifs and amulets have had – and still retain, to some extent – the key role of communicating universal meanings: protection, fertility, wealth, sense of belonging. These are veritable visual codes that have shaped and united whole communities and generations.
It is precisely in this context that the Sardinian lapwing finds its own place, a symbolic bird that has occupied a key role in the whole island’s imagery over time. Its stylized figure, rich in evocative power, has inspired master craftsmen and artists who have reinterpreted its shapes and colors in multiple varieties of artifacts: decorated ceramics, embroidered fabrics, jewelry and lucky charm pendants, wooden artifacts and iconic versions of the traditional su coccoi bread, enriched with a boiled egg in its heart and prepared for festive celebrations.
Meaning and origins of the sardinian lapwing
Scientifically known as Vanellus vanellus, lapwing is a migratory bird that inhabits plains, pastures and wetlands. Its presence in Sardinia has been documented since the 6th century AD, during the Byzantine rule. It’s no coincidence that the first stylized pictures of lapwings date back to this era, often related to the legendary figure of phoenix, symbol of protection, prosperity and rebirth.
On the other hand, the Sardinian agricultural and pastoral culture, deeply connected to the land and livestock, soon attributed magical and protective qualities to this bird: its presence in fields and pastures was seen as a sign of abundant harvests, favorable rainfall and good health for the livestock, while for homes, its stylized representations became symbols of domestic harmony, wealth and family fertility.
Sardinian folk art has captured and enhanced this symbolic value, turning the lapwing’s figure into ceramics, fabrics, jewelry and wooden artifacts, creating timeless works of art that combine aesthetic value with spirituality.
In plates, bowls, vases and tiles, the design of the Sardinian lapwing is often accompanied by geometric or floral motifs, increasing the animal’s dynamism and lightness. Meanwhile, in fabrics, rugs, blankets and tapestries, its design combines with traditional objects or figures, telling stories of everyday life, ancient legends and rural rituals. Furthermore, when used to create jewelry and talismans, the lapwing becomes symbol of protection and prosperity for those who wear it. Anyway, the artistic field in which the Sardinian lapwing has found its best expression is undoubtedly ceramics.
The sardinian lapwing into the island’s ceramics and folk traditions
Among the most beloved and popular artifacts of the sardinian artisan tradition, a place of honor goes to the ceramic lapwing, an object as beautiful to look as also a symbol embodying a veritable universe of meanings, powerfully evoking a rich folkloric and cultural heritage.
Each piece, varying in size usually between 15-30 centimeters, is hand-shaped and painted in vibrant colors such as turquoise, blue, white and terracotta, embellished with small designs or engravings too, recalling traditional sardinian motifs. The soft, stylized lines of the bird’s silhouette, combined with the dynamism of its open wings and fan-shaped tail, give the work a deep sense of lightness and motion, immediately capturing the viewer’s attention.
In more contemporary versions, it is enriched also with metallic and gold details and matte glazes, which certainly have the credit for making it more versatile and suitable for a wide range of environments, from classic to modern and even luxury.
Sardinian craftsmanship and contemporary luxury at the heart of Forte Village Resort
In a constant dialogue made of tradition and modernity, the Forte Village Resort in Santa Margherita di Pula, a prestigious tourist facility located near some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, offers a unique setting where the ceramic creations depicting sardinian lapwing finds a key place amidst elegance, luxury and creativity.
The central Piazza Luisa, beating heart of the resort’s social and night life, offers guests the opportunity to indulge in well-deserved luxury shopping thanks to a curated selection of haute couture boutiques, including Brunello Cucinelli, Dolce & Gabbana, Balenciaga, YSL, Valentino, Zegna, Il Gufo, Givenchy, Damiani and Hublot. Here guests can explore workshops selling fine local crafts, where to discover filigree jewelry, like the iconic Su Coccu, as well as carpets, embroidered tapestries and of course splendid ceramic pieces.
Not to be missed also the wide range of services dedicated to entertainment and well-being for mind and body, including its more than twenty top-class sports academies, as well as the rejuvenating thalassotherapy treatments by Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa. Equally noteworthy, the variety of gourmet dining options including a selection of fusion and starred restaurants, allowing you to join an unforgettable journey through the most exciting trends in Italian and international cuisine.
For further information on the resort and its wide range of services and shops, or for requesting a reservation, please call to the number +390709218818 or send an email to holiday@fortevillage.com.
Do you want to find out the best of Sardinian craftsmanship and experience a dream holiday in a true paradise? Discover Forte Village Resort in Sardinia
