Diversity in Pottery
by Anjali Patel
Pottery commenced as a practical craft. Using various types of clay to construct bowls, vases, and dishes is an innovative practice that serves useful, daily purposes. Adroit craftsmen and craftswomen have taken their occupations and developed it into an art. Each piece as well as each artisan holds a sense of individuality. Although the creator has a massive influence on the outcome, the location of where the piece is being assembled also has a pivotal effect on the result. Since the Paleolithic Era, pottery has been present for thousands of years in multiple parts of the world. Therefore, it is lucid that geography plays a crucial role by remaining relative to the art regardless of the decade. Throughout different countries, pottery has taken its own distinct form depending on factors such as the nation’s historical experiences and traditions. Here are some examples of earthenware or stoneware practices that are unique to a particular region or society.
Oaxacan Pottery
Mexican art is known for containing several bright, eye catching colors in its work. Although vibrant tones tend to have a strong appeal to the human eye, Oaxaca, Mexico offers something disparately dark yet elegant. According to Direct from Mexico, the term barro negro is used to describe the unique process utilized to make pots, sculptures, and even skulls for the famous Day of the Dead holiday. This unique process comprises of using black clay to build and carve complex décor. For anyone who finds this intriguing, San Bartolo Coyotepec is a little town composed of rich art history. This town also holds the Museum of Popular Art of Oaxaca that exhibits various pieces of art derived from this particular technique.
Tamegroute Pottery
Although Moroccan art is typically praised for its extremely intricate designs and patterns; Tamegroute Pottery takes a different approach constituted of simplicity. According to Couleur Locale, elements including manganese, silicon, and copper are used to form this type of pottery. The pottery made in Tamegroute is usually green, radiating a natural feel and atmosphere.
Blue Pottery
The enchanting aspect of world history is how everything intertwines and how societies and communities have and are continuously obtaining inspiration and ideas from one another. Jaipur is a famous city located in Rajasthan which is a state in the northern part of India. This city is known for its blue pottery that portrays elaborate configurations of geometric shapes and flowers. According to Rajasthan Visit, this genre of pottery is actually native to Persia. During the Mughal Empire, royal travel allowed for the exchange of art and culture. This resulted in Jaipur adopting certain qualities of Persian art.
Ban Chan Pottery
Laos is a peaceful nation located in between Thailand and Vietnam. The country’s serenity is definitely demonstrated through its pottery. Ecotourism Laos reports that the Ban Chan village, settled in the northern part of the region is filled with local denizens who produce an assortment of dishes, pots, etc. The objects created in this tranquil village tend to reflect neutral shades of beige and embody simple structures.