Mid-20th Century Mexican Tarahumara Rawhide-Bound Clay Ollas - A Pair

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Elevate your interior with a striking, large-scale pair of authentic mid-20th-century Tarahumara (Rarámuri) rawhide-bound clay ollas. Handcrafted in the mountainous … Read more Elevate your interior with a striking, large-scale pair of authentic mid-20th-century Tarahumara (Rarámuri) rawhide-bound clay ollas. Handcrafted in the mountainous canyons of Chihuahua, Mexico, these traditional water vessels are meticulously hand-coiled from organic mud clay and open-pit fired, giving each pot its rich, variegated terracotta and smoky-charcoal patina. Standing an impressive 17 inches tall, 16 inches wide and deep respectively; these oversized statement pieces feature their signature hand-woven wet rawhide netting. As the raw leather dried, it shrunk to form a tight, protective structural grid around the clay, creating a mesmerizing visual tension between the earthy earthenware and the rustic cords. With their grand proportions and beautiful, asymmetrical forms, this pair is perfect for high-end interior designers and collectors looking to introduce a "Wabi-Sabi," primitive, or warm Southwestern aesthetic to their space. They make an exceptional floor vignette in an entry way, a focal point on a large mantle, or a grounded textural element on deep shelving. Made in the 1970's, the rawhide webbing remains structurally sound and tightly secured around the vessels. The clay showcases natural variations, minor surface texture irregularities, and superficial firing marks inherent to primitive, open-air studio pottery. No significant damage or structural cracks. I purchased these from a mansion estate sale in the Southern Idaho area. See less