Mexican gastronomical craftwork: northern part of the country
The gastronomic craftsmanship of the north of the country are a vivid example of how beauty and practicality can go hand in hand.
Vasija ceremonial by Tirsa Flores CastroMuseo de Arte Popular
In Mexico, the variety of climates and the goodness of soils, as well as the biodiversity and special characteristics of each region are fused with the splendid imagination and skill of its artisans.
The north of the country is a region known for its arid climate and deserts. In spite of this, ethnic groups such as the Rarámuris, Yaquis, Mayos, Seris, among others, have flourished in this area—each with its own identity and a particular view of the surrounding habitat.
Cesta con tapa by DesconocidoMuseo de Arte Popular
In their artisan production, these peoples reflect this perspective of the world, while at the same time connecting it with the needs of everyday life. Therefore, it is common that the craftsmanship they manufacture are intended primarily for the use of the community's own families, whether at home or for other day-to-day tasks.
Vasija en forma de bule (2010) by Tirsa Flores CastroMuseo de Arte Popular
We can find a clear example of this in the craftsmanship used in Mexican cuisine, made with raw material from the area and with details that bring to light the influence of the environment on the minds of the artisans.
Cesta corita by DesconocidoMuseo de Arte Popular
Palm and palmilla baskets are not only one of the most famous craftsmanship among towns such as the Rarámuris, but also have multiple uses; from measuring quantities of food, storing grains and other foods and even transporting water.
By looking closely at these baskets, we can see that the palm is woven in such a way that there are no spaces between one strand and another.
This composition not only makes them highly resistant objects, but also prevents the materials they carry, mainly water, from leaking between the fabric joints.
Cesta corita by DesconocidoMuseo de Arte Popular
While men and women often participate in the manufacture of this Mexican craftsmanship, it is women who mainly weave them for use in cooking and ritual acts.
Cántaro doble boca by DesconocidoMuseo de Arte Popular
They also make crockery, pitchers, plates and clay cups. Although these pieces, from their origins to the present days, continue to be used mainly by the family themselves or the community, tourism has encouraged them to be produced in the same way to be sold.
Platón corita by DesconocidoMuseo de Arte Popular
Even so, even in the pieces destined for sale, we can enjoy the care and detail with which the artisans of each community create their works. In every dish, pot, pitcher or basket, dexterity and creativity come together.
Vasija by Rodrigo PérezMuseo de Arte Popular
The colors on these pieces are also worth highlighting.
As mentioned above, the desert landscape, as well as the flora and fauna of the northern region of the country, influence the peoples' worldview.
Jarra (paloma) by Gloria Ramírez TrujilloMuseo de Arte Popular
That is why in a town that flourished in the desert, it is common to find motifs that evoke the colors of sand, rocks and arid landscapes.
Olla con dos bocas y asa by Noé QuezadaMuseo de Arte Popular
Among the craftsmanship used in the Mexican gastronomy of this area, varied shades of coffee, red, black, yellow and white predominate; colors that can also be created with the raw material from the area.
Teswinera (2005) by Comunidad CerocahuiMuseo de Arte Popular
Palm, clay, willow and other natural resources are the materials that the peoples of the region have been able to take advantage of in this land that, however arid it seems, does not fail to offer its blessings to its people.
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