Brooms have been a part of everyday life since ancient times. In some cultures, they were used as a symbol of domesticity, while others believed they were capable of warding off evil spirits. Brooms were also used to sweep ash from fires and to sweep pathways clean.
The English word "broom" comes from the Old English word "brome," which means "a shrub," indicating that early brooms were likely made from twigs or small branches. The modern broom as we know it today, with its long handle and bristle head, was likely an adaptation of an earlier design.
When it comes to modern brooms, few are as impressive as the hand-crafted Besom. This broom is made from all-natural materials, including broomcorn, a type of sorghum plant that is dried and bundled into the bristle head. The handle is made from hand-carved wood, and in some cases, it may be adorned with intricate carving or other decorative elements.
The Besom is designed to be both functional and beautiful. It is larger than most brooms, with a sweeping width of at least 16 inches, making it ideal for larger spaces. The long handle allows the user to reach high spaces or sweep under furniture without having to bend over.
Creating a Besom is no easy task. The process is highly labor-intensive and requires a great deal of skill and expertise. The first step is to harvest the broomcorn, which is typically done in the fall. The corn must then be dried and cured for several months before it is ready to be used.
Next, the broomcorn is sorted and trimmed to the appropriate length. The shorter pieces are used for the center of the bristle head, while the longer pieces are used for the outer bristles. These pieces are then tied together using waxed linen thread to create the bristle head.
The handle is made from a single piece of wood that has been carefully carved and sanded to the desired shape. Depending on the design, the handle may be left plain or decorated with carving or other decorative elements.
Once the handle and bristle head are complete, they are assembled using more waxed linen thread. The thread is wrapped tightly around the base of the bristles, binding them to the handle and creating a sturdy connection.
Given the amount of skill and labor involved in creating a Besom, it's no surprise that these brooms can be quite expensive. Prices for a high-quality Besom can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
One of the most expensive Besoms ever sold was created by Peter Coates, a master broom maker from England. The broom, which measures more than 6 feet in length, was created using traditional techniques and materials and is adorned with intricate carving and other decorative elements. It was sold at an auction for more than $20,000.
While the price of a Besom may seem high, it's important to remember that these brooms are true works of art. They are not mass-produced, and each one is hand-crafted with care and attention to detail. For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and natural materials, a Besom is truly a worthwhile investment.
The Besom is an impressive example of what can be achieved through skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. While it may seem like a simple household item, the Besom is much more than that. It is a functional tool that is also a beautiful work of art, with a long history and a rich tradition behind it. For those who are willing to invest in a Besom, it is sure to be a cherished and beloved possession for years to come.
