Mexican Vase by Florentino Jimón Barba A detailed Mexican pottery with folk art miniature painting. The story of the pottery: Barro Brunido, or "Burnished Clay" is one of the oldest known pre-Hispanic pottery techniques and the foundation from which numerous other clay techniques have been derived. Originally used as vessels to carry water, the creation process is a laborious one. It begins by selecting the clay and shaping the piece, which is left to air dry for up to a month. Next comes the first burnishing stage, where little by little the clay is moistened, and then rubbed silky smooth with a river stone. Afterward, a clay slip is applied to further ensure the pores are watertight, and the artisan then delicately paints the designs. Next comes the second burnishing stage, this time with a stone of iron pyrite, which shines the surface to a luminous glow. Lastly, according to pre-Hispanic tradition, the piece is fired between 500 and 700 degrees Celsius. One of the most notable features of Barro Brunido is a non-glazed but strikingly polished surface. The designs pair local flora and fauna with complex geometric shapes, pre-Hispanic borders, and abstract themes including the mythical Nagual. Farmers tending their crops, seasonal celebrations, and observances of life and death are also among the subjects depicted. Today, a small group of artisans in Jalisco, Mexico still hand-craft authentic Barro Brunido using only traditional processes. Even the colorful paints and slips are derived from local clays and oxides. For them, creating pottery is not just a livelihood, it is their heritage. They are dedicated not only to their work but to the preservation and continuance of traditional Mexican folk art. ** Pictures are part of the description. ** Buyers outside the EU must take into account the VAT and customs duties, which will be their responsibility.