The techniques that shaped Mata Ortiz pottery, also known as Casas Grandes pottery, were conceived in pre-Columbian times. The history of Mata Ortiz pottery is built on this art form that disappeared, along with the city in which it was born in called Paquimé. But that all changed when a young boy from Mata… Continue Reading
Mata Ortiz pottery was revived with an archaeological dig in Paquimé, a pre-Columbian city located in the Rio Grande River Valley. Paquimé grew into a thriving city with booming political and commercial life, a working sewer system, irrigation, fine buildings and more, earning it the nickname of Casas Grandes, or large houses. This civilization vanished… Continue Reading
Native American art honors and preserves the rich cultures of Native American people. Those in the market for Native American art know the value in investing in and treasuring this type of art. It’s important to know how to recognize what is authentic and what is not. Whether the item is a sculpture, carving, doll,… Continue Reading
Some of the most beautiful and intricate contemporary ceramic pieces in the world, Mata Ortiz pottery is made from locally dug clay using the methods that Native American potters have used for hundreds of years. These beautiful pieces are made in Mata Ortiz, a village located in Chihuahua Mexico. More than 500 of the Village’s… Continue Reading
Potters continually develop and enhance their work with new materials and techniques. Materials change as communities thrive, creating ever-changing art for many to enjoy. The Jemez people of the Jemez Mountains in New Mexico, dug rich, white clay. This clay allowed the potter to produce botanical designs and dark black carbon marks in the pottery… Continue Reading