Bahia
Country of Origin - Brazil
Bahia Bass/Piassava (Attalea funifera Martius)
Bahia, originating from the state of Bahia in Brazil and found its way to Europe when it was used as packing material for sugar cane on cargo boats. Its potential as an excellent brush fibre was discovered when some of it was left on the dockside. Harvested from the tree, this leaf stalk fibre can reach lengths of up to 5 meters, requiring sorting and grading due to its tapering shape.
What sets Bahia apart is its water-retaining properties and resistance to rot when damp. It's exceptionally resilient, making it ideal for semi-stiff yard brooms and platform brooms, as well as chimney sweeps' brushes. Due to its cost, it's often blended with Palmyras and synthetic materials.
The term "Piassava" or "Piassaba," commonly used for Bahia, has roots in the Amerindian language Tupi, evolving through Portuguese. History tells of a brush maker in Liverpool, UK, in the 1840’s named Mr Bass, who was allegedly the first person to make brushes with Bahia. This is an interesting story, but is not thought to be from where the term “Bass” was derived. Instead, it likely stems from the early 1800s and may be related to "Bast," a material obtained from plant stems, widely used for tying twig bundles.
Selection of our products using this fibre
Brazil
Brazil, the largest country in South America, is a land of astonishing natural beauty and vibrant culture. Its extensive Amazon rainforest is home to a vast array of unique biodiversity, making it a global ecological treasure. The Amazon River, the world's largest by volume, flows through this lush expanse, providing life and sustenance to countless species. Brazil's other natural wonders include the majestic Iguazu Falls and the expansive Pantanal wetlands, where visitors can encounter diverse wildlife, from jaguars to capybaras.
Culturally, Brazil is a diverse mosaic. The country's music, particularly samba and bossa nova, has captivated the world, and the annual Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a spectacular celebration of rhythm and dance. The nation's people, known for their warmth and enthusiasm, are a testament to Brazil's rich heritage, influenced by indigenous, African, Portuguese, and immigrant cultures.
Brazil's history is marked by a complex narrative, from its indigenous origins to Portuguese colonization, slavery, and a transition to an independent empire and eventually a republic. The country's modern era is characterized by economic development and political challenges.
Brazil
Brazil, the largest country in South America, is a land of astonishing natural beauty and vibrant culture. Its extensive Amazon rainforest is home to a vast array of unique biodiversity, making it a global ecological treasure. The Amazon River, the world's largest by volume, flows through this lush expanse, providing life and sustenance to countless species. Brazil's other natural wonders include the majestic Iguazu Falls and the expansive Pantanal wetlands, where visitors can encounter diverse wildlife, from jaguars to capybaras.
Culturally, Brazil is a diverse mosaic. The country's music, particularly samba and bossa nova, has captivated the world, and the annual Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a spectacular celebration of rhythm and dance. The nation's people, known for their warmth and enthusiasm, are a testament to Brazil's rich heritage, influenced by indigenous, African, Portuguese, and immigrant cultures.
Brazil's history is marked by a complex narrative, from its indigenous origins to Portuguese colonization, slavery, and a transition to an independent empire and eventually a republic. The country's modern era is characterized by economic development and political challenges.