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Hand-Painted Tbourida Festival Plate
Morocco is known for its ceramics, adorned with geometric patterns, arabesques, and beautiful designs.
Most Moroccan ceramic designs are heavily influenced by Islamic or Berber art. Intricate geometric patterns and arabesques tend to cover the entire surface of the pieces, completely transforming the humble clay building materials. Groups of artisans continue centuries-old traditions in their designs, passed down from generation to generation.
How is Moroccan pottery made?
The process of making Moroccan pottery is a true labor of patience.
Moroccan ceramics are traditionally made from red clay that, in its solid form, contains minerals and eroded rocks. The rocks are first gathered and crushed with a wooden hammer.
First, artisans soak the clay in water for 48 hours to soften it. They spread it on the ground to dry for another 48 hours.
Then, they mix the clay with their feet, kneading it by hand until they obtain homogeneous lumps. Afterward, artisans let the clay dry in the sun for several days.
Finally, after this laborious work, the potter can start kneading the clay to make a ceramic item.
The modeling phase; During this phase, the clay is subjected to the force of hand and rotation.
The artisan manipulates the clay by molding and manually turning it. They use sensitive gestures: their right hand and left hand work together to shape the clay on the cutter.
The artisan uses their perception of volumes to transform the mud into a jewel. The potter peels off their work to place it on a table.
After giving it intricate shapes for vases, cups, tagines, plates, and more, the clay is left to dry for a few days before being fired in a kiln. This changes the structure of the clay into ceramic material without fully fusing it.
Decoration can be applied to the ceramics before or after firing. This work also requires hours of patience, concentration, and application.
Then, each piece is hand-painted with the utmost precision, using multiple glazes to achieve the exact color and effect desired by the artist, who brings intricate designs and vibrant colors to life!
Illustrations of Morocco’s nature and culture are a rich source of inspiration. The artist adds their personal touch to create a unique blend of colors and decorations.
Once decorated, the pieces are glazed and fired for a second time for 48 hours to obtain the finished product.
