This little chap has huge hidden potential, much like our H&N breeds. The distinctive form of the figurine may not strike many of you as art and craftsmanship right away. But in fact, it is both: art and local craftsmanship. It is also cultural heritage with a hidden benefit.

The Siurell not only represents the more traditional art and lifestyle in Mallorca visually; it does so audibly, too. Each Siurell is really a clay pipe. In ancient times, such Siurell whistles came in all shapes and sizes, and were used by farmers and shepherds to control their flocks of animals, mostly goats or sheep.

The Siurells proudly look back on many hundreds of years of history. Some say they originated among the Cretans or even the Phoenicians, but nothing is known for sure.

The Siurells proudly look back on many hundreds of years of history. Some say they originated among the Cretans or even the Phoenicians, but nothing is known for sure.

They are still manufactured by hand in the proper sense of the Latin words manu (Latin for “hand”) and facture (Latin for “make”). Its shape can be anything from an animal, a mythical creature, a human form or even a person from today such as a sports idol.

After moulding, they are baked, then dipped into a lime bath to give them their pristine white colour. Then, bright, basic watercolours like blue, red, green or yellow follow.

The somewhat funny, naive form of the Siurell that clearly shows it was handmade is proof of this special value: each Siurell is absolutely unique; no two are alike. Someone has made it, respecting ecological ways of manufacture; someone has built a pipe inside, then coloured and finished the little piece. The peculiar shape and style are a guarantee of this craftsman work that went into it.

We still have some Siurells left that we took back from Mallorca. If you would like one, let us know and we will find a way to get it to you.

The somewhat funny, naive form of the Siurell that clearly shows it was handmade is proof of this special value: each Siurell is absolutely unique; no two are alike