Having grown up in central Mexico, I was familiar with the artisan styles of the region. However many years later, I had the opportunity to travel to the state of Oaxaca, Mexico on the southern Pacific coast.
I was amazed by the different styles of handicrafts and the variety of materials used. I was especially mesmerized by the “barro negro” clay pots.
I remember flying back with the pot on my lap! (Unfortunately the pot did not survive a move.) I was able to acquire a much smaller pot, which I have treasured. What makes the style so unique is the clay used is actually a grayish color and their methods and tools are all pre-columbian. They do not use a pottery wheel, instead they mold the clay by hand and they fire the pieces in a charcoal fire. The average piece takes approximately 20 days to be completed.
Once I became a serious collector of nativity scenes, I began a quest for a creche made of “barro negro.” I searched high and low without any success. I asked friends and family to keep an eye out for one on their travels to no avail.
Then during the summer of 2018 while on vacation in Merida, Yucatan we decided to visit The Casa Montejo museum, the home of one of the first Spanish settlers in the Yucatan peninsula. After our visit, we decided to made a detour to the gift shop whose purpose is to promote the “grand masters of popular art” highlighting the rich traditions and culture of the Mexican Republic. While browsing the store, I found my “barro negro” nativity.
Needless to say every time I travel to Merida, I stop by the gift shop to see what treasures I may find.
By John Marin - Spring, Texas