The Potters of La Chamba

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Right in the centre of Colombia, in the department of Tolima, on the banks of the Magdalena river, lies the picturesque village of La Chamba, where the art of black pottery has been perfected over generations.

Histoire

The tradition of black pottery in La Chamba dates back to the indigenous people, the Tolima, who lived in the area before the Spanish arrived in Colombia. For cooking, eating, storing food, making ceremonial objects, and even jewellery, the indigenous people used black pottery. Even after the Spanish brought their own pottery traditions to the region, the Tolima people continued to make their black pottery. It was a testament to their resilience, and over time, the two traditions merged, resulting in a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences that defines Chamba pottery we know today.

Matériaux

The black pottery of La Chamba is made from a special type of micaceous clay found only in the area. This clay belongs to the residents of La Chamba and is obtained from the fields of local farmers. A fine red clay slip is applied to the pottery before firing, and the finished pieces are hand burnished to a fine sheen using local Agatha stones.

Le processus

Crafted by hand, the black pottery of La Chamba is dried outside on porches, patios, and yards before being fired in small ovens. The burnished pieces are fired at high temperatures in small communal ovens and then smoked in large drums to achieve its characteristic black matte color.

La Chamba Today

Chamba pottery is highly regarded for its beauty, practicality, and its ability to enhance cooking. Due to its porous nature, Chamba pottery absorbs heat evenly, prevents food from burning or sticking, and helps retain moisture, resulting in more flavorful dishes. It is versatile cookware that can be used in the oven, microwave, stovetop, and grill, making it beloved by chefs and home cooks worldwide.

Overall, Chamba pottery is not only an object but also a living tradition that connects generations. The potters of La Chamba take pride in their heritage and actively work to preserve this ancient tradition. This black pottery serves as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Colombian culture and stands as a timeless symbol of the rich history and artistry of La Chamba.

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