BLACK CLAY SHOT

Black Clay: It is an iconic pottery of Mexico, primarily produced in Oaxaca, in the municipalities of San Bartolo Coyotepec and Santa María Atzompa. This art has its origins in pre-Columbian times and was used by cultures such as the Zapotecs and Mixtecs in the central valley. The earliest evidence of these creations dates back to the time of Monte Albán (around 500 B.C.), where they were used to improve the transportation of liquids. These initial pieces, made solely of clay, had issues with leakage, which were resolved by firing them in a pit with oak wood.

The process begins with soaking the clay and allowing it to settle to remove impurities. Artisans then mold and shape each piece, letting them dry in the sun for four days or until no clay stains remain. If the pieces have cuts, artisans work with care and attention to detail. The shine is achieved by polishing the pieces with materials like quartz crystals and allowing them to dry for several days. Finally, the pieces are fired in a wood-fired oven at temperatures of 700°C to 800°C, which is actually a pit dug into the ground, for an entire day. This gives the clay its distinctive black color.

About "Briñido" Burnishing: It's a pre-Hispanic technique that involves sealing the pores of ceramics, making them waterproof and giving the material a polished appearance. It is commonly used in vases, flower pots, and ceramic projects, enhancing their functionality and touch.

Ceramists can use various tools for burnishing, such as wooden sticks, stones, bones, or seeds. Also, glass or metal balls. For successful results, burnishing is done when the piece is in a leather-hard state, not too wet or too dry, preventing deformations and breakage during the process. The ceramic piece is fired at less than 1000 degrees to preserve the burnished shine. At higher temperatures, maintaining the shine becomes more challenging. Burnishing remains intact, sealing the clay's pores. Burnishing is a complex technique that demands the experience and knowledge of skilled potters, enabling the creation of beautiful ceramic pieces cherished worldwide.

Material: Burnished black clay.
Capacity: 50ml. 1.6 oz.
Size: 5cm height x 5cm diameter. 1.9 x 1.9 in.
Weight: 82 grams.
Origin: Oaxaca, Mexico.
Handcrafted product.
Handmade.