The story of Mata Ortiz pottery is likened to that of a
mythical bird, the Phoenix. Risen from the ashes of Paquimè
(pronounced pah-key-may), the ancient ruins in the State of
Chihuahua, Mexico. One man, Juan Quezada, working in the
local foothills, upon finding shards of pottery left behind by
the unknown tribe who built Paquimè, painstakingly through
trial and error, recreated the pottery of those ancient people.
His talent and willingness to share his discoveries have
blossomed into an entire pueblo being involved in pottery
making!

What really sets Mata Ortiz apart from other native potters
of the American southwest is that they have not limited their
designs to ones they found in Paquimè. Rather, they have
used the artistry of Paquimè as a springboard to follow their
imagination. Young second and third generation potters are
continuing to develop new techniques and styles, creating a
renaissance of pottery-making in Mata Ortiz.

Tranquilo Imports seeks out those Mata Ortiz artist who are
the best of the best. Not only the established masters and
grandmaster's, but the rising stars whose talents are just
now being discovered.

If there is an artist whose work you desire, please feel free
to contact us so we can acquire their pottery for you! We are
frequent visitors to Mata Ortiz.
TRANQUILO IMPORTS
MATA ORTIZ           MICHOACAN y Mas



















According to the Tourism Board of Mexico, there are over 30 different
handcrafts in the state of Michoacan that are in such varied groups as
pottery, metal work, woodwork, textiles and vegetable fibers. Many
of these are of pre-hispanic origin using the same technique as their
ancestors.

On our latest trip, we were able to purchase items from several of the
Greatest artist in Mexico. Artist such as Emilio Molinero Hurtado,
Mario Agustine Gaspar, Juan Torres, Fidel Avalos, and the late Juan
Horta Castillo. This mask was one of the last made by this great artist.

In addition we have several lacquer chest from Olinala, Guerrero,
including several from renown artist Francisco Coronel who was
classified as a Great Master of Mexican Folk Art by Fonart.

At Tranquilo Imports, we believe in the intrinsic value of 'hecha a
mano', made by hand, and the value of the artist who produce them.
We hope this website will help bring some of their work to light.

Be sure and check out Gallery V which contains slightly damaged
pieces at very reduced prices!

                                                                    Favorite Links:     

Spencer McCallum's website: www.mataortizcalendar.com/index.html
Frontline World article on Mata Ortiz: http://www.pbs.org/frontlineworld/stories/mexico403/hernandez.html