Villages back in the country/ jungle areas all seem to specialize in one craft, handed down through the ages. Today we went off the wood carvers. The men hack at a limb of wood with their machete, ending with the most incredible figures of animals and birds. These are from 2' to 6', and are then painted by the women in the most minute and amazing designs and colours. While there, we saw a framer irrigating his field, row by row, with water from a well on the field.
Then we bussed off to another village to see Alfareria Dona Rosa's black pottery at the oldest and most famous shop in San Bartoloa Coyotepec. She invented this world renowned 'black pottery' by accident in 1952, as plastics were becoming a popular kitchen and storage item, costing less than handmade pottery. She polishes the pottery with a stone of onyx giving it a shine when it is baked and becomes a beautiful shiny black piece of art. Her son and grandchildren carry on the tradition using two concave plates, one upside down supporting the other, as the turning post, without a wheel.
This afternoon, we visited another village Teotitlan del Valle historically know for its beautiful textiles and weavings. These master craftsmen have gained world recognition for the wool rugs handwoven on large wooden looms using the same techniques passed down through the centuries. Next cultural experience was the mescal factory and store, an important part of life here. Each district has different dress and customs. Most things are carried on their heads.
This has been a most informative and astounding day.
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