Gourd-Shaped Vessel c. 500

This gourd-shaped vessel was made by the Tlatilco people using ceramic materials and techniques. The vessel’s form mimics the shape of a gourd, reflecting the importance of the natural world in Tlatilco culture. The hand-built construction emphasizes the inherent qualities of clay: its plasticity, ability to be shaped, and transformation through firing. The smooth, unadorned surface highlights the vessel's form and the subtle variations in the clay's color. The process of creating this vessel would have involved careful preparation of the clay, shaping it by hand, and firing it in a kiln. The act of making this vessel embodies cultural traditions, passed down through generations of Tlatilco artisans. The labor involved in the production process underscores the value placed on craftsmanship within Tlatilco society. By recognizing the materials, making, and cultural context of this work, we can appreciate the skill and artistry of the Tlatilco people, and challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.