Moroccan Pottery: A Timeless Masterpiece of Beauty and Craftsmanship

Types of Moroccan Pottery

There are two main types of Moroccan pottery: decorative pottery and Berber pottery.

Decorative pottery is produced mainly in cities and is known for its elaborate designs and bright colors. Artisans use a variety of techniques to create decorative pottery, including hand-throwing, hand-painting, and glazing.

Berber pottery, on the other hand, is characterized by its simple, functional designs and its use of natural materials. Berber pottery is often made in small villages and is sold locally.

How Moroccan Pottery is Made

The process of making Moroccan pottery is a labor-intensive one that requires patience, skill, and dedication.

Preparing the Clay

The first step is to prepare the clay. This involves quarrying the clay from the earth, crushing it, and soaking it in water to soften it. The clay is then mixed and kneaded by hand until it is smooth and pliable.

Shaping the Pottery

Once the clay is prepared, it is shaped into the desired form. This is done by hand or using a potter's wheel. For decorative pottery, artisans often use molds to create intricate designs.

Firing the Pottery

Once the pottery is shaped, it is fired in a kiln to harden it. The firing process can take up to several days, depending on the size and thickness of the pottery.

Traditional wood-fired kilns are still in use in Morocco today, although they are not as common as they once were. These kilns are incredibly interesting, but they are not very reliable. The temperatures are difficult to regulate, so pottery often breaks. Despite this, some potters who cannot afford to use gas ovens still use wood-fired kilns for their work.

Decorating the Pottery

After the pottery has been fired, it is decorated. This can be done before or after the pottery is fired, depending on the technique being used. For decorative pottery, artisans often use a variety of colors and glazes to create intricate designs.

Berber pottery, on the other hand, is typically undecorated or has very simple designs.

Buying Moroccan Pottery

Moroccan pottery is a beautiful and unique way to add a touch of Morocco to your home. It is also a way to support Moroccan artisans and their communities.

When buying Moroccan pottery, it is important to choose a reputable retailer. There are many unscrupulous retailers who sell fake or low-quality Moroccan pottery.

It is also important to be aware of the different types of Moroccan pottery available. Decorative pottery is typically more expensive than Berber pottery, but it is also more durable and decorative.

If you are looking for a unique and authentic piece of Moroccan pottery, I recommend visiting a local market or artisan workshop. Here you will find a wide variety of pottery to choose from, and you will be able to support local artisans.

Here are some tips for buying Moroccan pottery:

• Look for pottery that is well-made and has a smooth, even finish.
• Avoid pottery with cracks or chips.
• Be aware that some Moroccan pottery is made for decorative purposes only and is not food safe.
• Ask the retailer about the pottery and how it was made.

I hope this information has been helpful. Enjoy your beautiful Moroccan pottery!