Mária Farkašová, Janka Motyčková
When it’s said “made of genuine leather”, images of products and garments made of bovine, pig, calf or ram skin come to mind. What about the skin of fish? Is it possible to process and then use it? In the past, regions where there were few animal species learned to utilize their every byproduct. The use of the skin of fish is an ancient tradition in societies that lived by rivers, streams, and coasts around the world. Although it is very difficult today to find proper historical documentation of treatment of the skin of fish, this very process and resulting products are currently picking up great interest in Scandinavia.
Lotta Rahme has for more than 30 years been studying and working in the leather industry. Her leather production and studio can be found in the medieval town of Sigtuna in Sweden. Leathers of different kinds are processed there by traditional techniques. Her knowledge came from a course on prehistoric techniques as well as studies of archaeology, frequent traveling, and the diligent research of old, traditional tanneries in Sweden and other nations. Today, Lotta Rahme belongs to promoters of traditional techniques, which include processing the skin of fish. She treats the fish skin herself, and makes from it clothes, accessories, and miscellaneous items. Rahme writes and exhibits her work as well as organizes courses throughout Scandinavia