Petatillo ceramics are doubtless one of the most beautiful manifestations of Mexican pottery and they are rarely seen in public markets. This unique creation takes its name from the decorative crosshatching of this lines that remind one of finely woven straw. Due to the labor-intense process and the resulting high selling prices, very few artisans
undertake this work.
The exquisite technique survives thanks to artisans like José Bernabé who has been producing petatillo ceramics for over forty years. His work is the product of a combination of tradition and innovation. Over many years he has perfected the use of the wheel, the kiln and the design while injecting his creativity into the development of new forms and decorative motifs. The paints and pigments are comprised of mixtures of colorants from the soil, they are applied with fine brushes of animal hair which he makes in his shop.
The petatillo technique begins when a mixture of red clay and water is applied both inside and out. When dry, the design is traced with a type of hard-pointed bruin. The decorative motifs are distributed about the piece, their outlines and centers filled with color. The surrounding areas are decorated with the fine, cross-hatched lines that compromise the petatillo. José Bernabé has received numerous acknowledgments and prizes.
Sample Works: