At DeCorazón México, we are committed to the promotion and preservation of the rich culture and craftsmanship of our country. Our approach ranges from the dissemination of diverse cultural expressions of the Valley of Oaxaca to the preservation of handicraft techniques passed down from generation to generation. We firmly believe that the communities that develop the culture and art of Mexico have known how to re-signify their symbols, keeping them alive throughout time.
Origins of Zapotec Ceramics
Zapotec pottery has its roots in pre-Hispanic times, when the indigenous cultures of Oaxaca were already producing clay and clay pieces for everyday use. This craft tradition was influenced by the presence of different ethnic groups and by the geographic diversity of the region.
Red Mud: The Warmth of the Earth
Red clay is another treasure of Mexican pottery, used mainly in the regions of Michoacán and Guerrero. Its characteristic reddish color comes from the presence of iron oxides in the soil, which are mixed with the mud during extraction. Red clay handicrafts are valued for their natural beauty and their connection to the earth, being a symbol of Mexican cultural identity.
Black Mud: Shine and Sophistication
Black clay pottery is a technique originating in Oaxaca that dates back to around 500 BC. This process involves polishing the clay and firing it at high temperature to obtain a matte black finish. Black clay pieces stand out for their luster and sophistication, reflecting the technical skill of Zapotec artisans.
Green Mud: Natural Glazing
Green glazed clay pottery is another Oaxacan specialty. This technique is characterized by a glazed finish that gives the pieces a glass-like shine. The resulting green textures and colors reflect the artisans’ skill in manipulating the clay and natural glazes, creating unique works of art.
Natural Mud: Ancestral Connection
The use of natural clay is fundamental in Zapotec ceramics. Artisans select and clean the local clay, eliminating impurities to guarantee the quality of the material. This process reflects a deep connection with the land and ancestral traditions, allowing the creation of pieces that keep the Zapotec cultural essence alive.
DeCorazón México, A Project that Disseminates Prehispanic Art
Zapotec pottery, in its many variations of red, black, green and natural clay, is a testimony to the cultural and artistic richness of Oaxaca. Each technique and color reflects the deep connection of the Zapotec people with their environment and beliefs. At DeCorazón México, we are proud to support and spread these traditions, offering pieces that tell stories and keep alive the essence of our ancestors. Each clay object is a window to the past and a bridge to the future, demonstrating that art and culture are fundamental to the identity and continuity of our people.
