Chulucanas Ceramics, deep roots from Pre-Hispanic Cultures

By Karina Garay, Translation: Melissa Castillo

The round and voluptuous ceramics made in the northern district of Chulucanas are a flagship product of Peru, a recognition that makes northern communities feel very proud.

With its people's perseverance, this town has achieved what many other towns wish to accomplish: the origin denomination for its chubby figures of soil color, which some people have tried to copy without success.

Using a palette and a smooth stone, the clay is conquered by soft and continuous touches which gives shape to craftsmen creativity, turning it into a couple of dancers or women peasants surrounded by pitchers, among other traditional figures.

Besides these images, modern styles have added other type of ceramics like vases, glasses and decorative plates . Despite its dark colors, Chulucanas ceramics look great and are highly appreciated by tourists.

Santodio Paz Juárez, representative of Export Cerámica Chulucanas company in Piura, said there is a increasing demand for these products in the international market, "We showcased our art at a Frankfurt Show in Germany and our ceramics were well received by German people,” he added.

“This is a big challenge for our enterprise, we are the first company founded by craftsmen,” he highlighted.

Although ceramics production dates back from many years ago, it was boosted during the 1960s when craftsmen Max Inga Adanaque, Gerásimo Sosa Alache and José Luis Yamunaqué rescued the ancient technique of Vicús and Tallán cultures.

Thanks to their work, supported by religious sister Gloria Joyce who took them to exhibit their work in the United States, many Peruvian young artists had a chance to exhibit their ceramics and be recognized for their creativity.

INFORMATION
Chulucanas ceramics has its roots in the pre-hispanic cultures Tallán and Vicús (500, years A. D.) in the northern part of Peru.

The Vicús ceramics was influenced by the Salinar and Gallizano cultures. Both a sculptural nature and painted ornamentation were typical of the design of the artefacts. Animal and human figures were especially popular.

Where to find Chulucanas ceramics?

Export Cerámica Chulucanas: ask for Santodio Paz. Phones (073) 378-324, (073)-9907203, E- mail santodio@hotmail.com

(END) MCS/LVT

Published: 5/14/2008