Late 20th-Century Oaxacan Barro Rojo (Red Clay) Decorative Nesting Bowls – A Pair

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Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Note: Not recommend for food use, only for decorative purposes.

Barro Rojo or red clay is a … Read more Excellent Pre-Owned Condition.

Note: Not recommend for food use, only for decorative purposes.

Barro Rojo or red clay is a traditional form of pottery made in San Marcos Tlapazola, a small town in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. In this small village, women have been making pottery out of red clay gathered from high in the surrounding mountains for twenty generations. The women begin by excavating earth from the fields and mountains close to their homes. Pieces are made completely by hand using pieces of wood, stone, coconut shell, gourds and corn cobs to help shape the clay. Once the piece is made, it is set aside to dry then decorated, or not, and then coated in a red clay slip which is then set aside to harden and dry for firing. The final step, firing, is done through a unique process in which the earthenware is placed in an outdoor fire pit with brush and branches to burn. Since 1984, in addition to the traditional cooking and serving utensils usually associated with barro rojo ware, the women have endeavored to expand their offerings by making rustic decorative pieces, hand decorated with whimsical folk art motifs. These nesting cuties are a modern shape with their geometric forms, decorated simply with a leaf and vine interior border. In excellent condition with age-appropriate wear. Together the set weighs 2 lbs. The pair measures as follows:

Large bowl: 8¼” x 6¼” x 2” L/W/H
Small bowl: 5¼” x 4¼” x 1½” L/W/H

Fabulously petite, perfect for display on a bookshelf, small side table or as trinket bowls on a dresser or vanity top.

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