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The process begins by mixing several clays together to get a clay
maleable enough to allow the shaping as well as the etching of each individual piece. |
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Eusebio begins to form the clay by hand.
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The vessel is made in
two pieces |
The pieces are united to
form the vessel |
Rigoberto combines parts
that make the shape. |
He then removes imperfections and adds or subtracts decorative elements. |
The vessels are placed in the sun to dry.
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After they have dried sufficiently they are ready
to work.
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The vessel is then rubbed with a small river stone, using water, to eliminate the roughness, polishing the surface.
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When the vessel has been
polished smooth and shiny, it is covered with an earthtone, like a terra cotta.
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It is then covered with an animal fat to preserve the shine on the pot and allow the design to be rapidly cut into the vessel.
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The design is then cut into
the vessel.
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When the vessels are ready
they go to the kiln.
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Several pieces are put into
the kiln at one time.
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The vessels are turned frequently.
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They are covered with
Eucalyptus leaves to give them the rich black color.
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When the fire has burned out the vessels are cleaned.
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The result is an exquisit
Tonala black clay vessel.
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