THE 5 MOST IMPORTANT TYPICAL MICHOACAN CRAFTS - CULTURE VOCABULARY - 2025

Among the typical crafts of Michoacán, one of the most outstanding is pottery. In this state the tradition of creating objects with clay dates back to pre-Hispanic times.

During the colony, some indigenous techniques merged with those of the peninsular, giving rise to the richness and variety that this region presents in terms of its ceramics.

Many of these creations are made by the P'urhépecha people, who usually divide their time between agriculture and the practice of this art.

On the other hand, the different techniques used by these Michoacan artisans give an idea of ​​the mastery with which they work with clay. These are: polished, polychrome, glazed, smoothed and high temperature clay.

You may also be interested in the customs and traditions of Michoacán.

The 5 main typical crafts of Michoacán

1- Pineapples of San José de Gracia

The ceramic pineapples made in the municipality of San José de Gracia are one of the typical Michoacan crafts that are most representative of the state.

It should be noted that in this community, where almost everyone speaks P'urhépecha (their mother tongue), half of the inhabitants are artisans dedicated to pottery.

The pineapples, made with clay and natural pigments, have achieved recognition not only nationally, but also internationally. Each piece made by these master potters is unique and of great quality.

2- Catrinas of Capula

Another of the most recognized typical Michoacán crafts are the catrinas from Capula, a town in the municipality of Morelia.

These are pieces of clay that represent one of the most famous skulls in the Aztec nation: the Catrina skull.

This character was created by the renowned Mexican engraver and cartoonist José Guadalupe Posada.

In the 1970s, craftsman Juan Torres brought the character to life in a piece of clay that later became Capula's distinctive figure.

Aside from fine clay modeling work, these skulls show off luxurious dresses with unique designs and feathered wide-brimmed hats.

In addition, they have different accessories such as earrings, pearl necklaces, aprons, umbrella and bags.

3- Green glazed earthenware from Patamban

Patamban is a very small P'urhépecha community, but one that has won local and international pottery awards.

In this community, glazed ceramics are made in various colors, colorless and of all kinds.

However, it is especially distinguished by the green glazed earthenware. One of the best known designs is the towers with pots, from which pots and saucepans hang.

4- Devils of Ocumicho

The origin of the clay figures molded as devils made in Ocumicho is uncertain. However, what can be said is that they are very original unique pieces.

The techniques for its preparation have been modified over time, making them more attractive for the domestic and international markets.

Today these famous figures enjoy worldwide prestige.

5- Black glazed chandeliers from Santa Fe de la Laguna

The black-glazed chandeliers symbolize mourning. These are used especially in the ceremony called the offering of the dead, which is an essential part of the Day of the Dead celebrations.

In Michoacán, the objects of this type with the most reputation are those from Santa Fe de la Laguna.

References

1. The pineapples, the most representative crafts of the state. (2016, July 12). In Province. Retrieved on November 9, 2017, from Provincia.com.mx
2. Pérez, K. (s / f). Capula, the town where the clay catrina was born. Retrieved on November 9, 2017, from mexicodesconocido.com.mx
3. López Servín, E. (2013, November 9). Glazed ceramics, a contribution of Patamban art to the world. Retrieved on November 9, 2017, from Cambiodemichoacan.com.mx
4. Ocumicho, Michoacán, where the devil is molded. (s / f). In Mexico Unknown. Retrieved on November 9, 2017, from mexicodesconocido.com.mx
5. González, A. (2016). Traditional Mexico.: Literature and customs. Mexico DF: Colegio de México AC.