Baby Elephant Chulucana, Peru

Chulucanas were developed in northern Peru using techniques from pre-Incan times. The art form experienced a revival beginning in the 1970s and ceramicists since have expanded the colour repertoire to create beautiful pieces. Also available: llama, owl, turtle, cat.

Due to the handmade nature of these pieces, no two are quite alike!

• Material: painted ceramic
• Dimensions: approx. 6"L x 4"W x 8.5"H
• Made in Peru

Additional information: 

These ceramics are thrown by hand and a slip of liquid clay is placed over the exterior of the piece where colour is desired. An oven is prepared with mango leaves to smoker pieces to a deep black colour. They are then fired at 1400F, and the process is repeated. Once the liquid clay has hardened, it is carefully removed to reveal the coloured areas and the pieces are polished to a smooth finish. The ceramics retain a subtle, smoky scent for some time after finishing. 

Made by Roger and his artisan team in Chulucanas, Peru. He began molding small figures from clay as a child, and would often observe elders create the pottery that gave fame to his city. A close friend showed him the technique, featuring a striking use of negative spaces and smoke firing. Today, his art supports not only him and his family, but that of his employees.