Black clay

Black clay originated in San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca, and is well known not only as a Mexican tradition that blends indigenous and Spanish cultures, but also for its unparalleled beauty and originality.
Pots, pitchers, amphorae and such ornamental pieces made out of black clay are also recognized for the crystal clear sound they produce when struck, which derives not only from the black clay, but also from the manufacturing process, which lasts 20 to 30 days and includes several stages of slow drying, burnishing and cooking. In order to obtain the gleaming finish, each piece is hand polished with quartz stones before cooking.

Black clay and its unique ornamental qualities, fruit of the labor of Zapotecan hands, garnishes our Casa María with its sinuous and ancient forms.