Enjoy the Luz (Light) box which brings us visibility, warmth, and love. Use the beautiful Barro Negro (black clay) lantern from San Bortolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca as the perfect centerpiece for a romantic dinner, late-night reading session, or the perfect patio lantern. This lantern piece is an elegant egg shape to bring out the delicate and intricate carvings of sunflowers and takes an hour just to carve. The whole process takes weeks, from soaking the clay to remove impurities, to forming the shapes and allowing them to dry. Pair your lantern with the lovely scented candle, “Año Nuevo” from Amor y Flor. Amor y Flor is a company based in Los Angeles, California that handcrafts nontoxic candles containing all-natural soy wax, essential oils, premium fragrance, and cotton-braided wicks. You’ll love the wonderful combination of color and smell that you get when you place these two items together.
Luz Box
A beautiful Barro Negro (black clay) lantern from Oaxaca with a handcrafted seasonal candle.
(1) Barro Negro (Black Clay) Lantern 9.5 in x 6.5 in
(1) Hand Crafted, Amor Y Flor Candle: Scent will vary based on season
Doña Esther Real and her husband Don Emilio Ortiz have been making Barro negro for many generations and continue the tradition with their three children. Their family business supports 10 families in their community, and they have expanded over the years. Barro negro pottery (“black clay”) is a style of pottery from San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca, distinguished by its color, sheen and unique designs. The origins of Barro negro pottery extended through the Monte Albán period (500 BC), with examples of it found at archeological sites, fashioned mostly into jars and other utilitarian items. It has remained a traditional craft of the Zapotecs and Mixtecs of the Central Valleys area to the present day. Originally Barro negro pottery was matte, grayish and very sturdy. In the 1950s, it was discovered that you could change the color and shine of the pieces by polishing the clay pieces and firing them at a slightly lower temperature. Just before the formed clay piece is completely dry, it is polished with a quartz stone to compress the surface. After firing, the piece emerges a shiny black instead of a dull gray. This innovation makes the pieces more delicate, but the final piece looks amazing.
YOUR PURCHASE MAKES A DIFFERENCE:
- Artisan Made
- Preserves Tradition
- Supports Small Business
- Job Creator
- Hecho en Mèxico